Festive Cherry Salad
A vibrant, fruity cherry salad with citrus-flavored gelatin, chopped cherries, pineapple, and crunchy pecans, perfect for festive gatherings and light, refreshing desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lemon and apricot gelatins in boiling water; stir in orange juice.
- Chill until mixture is the consistency of an unbeaten egg white.
- Fold in chopped cherries, crushed pineapple, chopped celery, and pecans.
- Spoon into a lightly oiled 5-cup mold.
- Chill until set.
- Serve and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of almond extract to the gelatin mixture. If you're looking for a vegan version, use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Additionally, you can substitute the crushed pineapple with diced fresh pineapple for a different texture. This festive cherry salad is perfect for holiday gatherings, and it pairs beautifully with Holly Red Punch.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is an excellent side dish for holiday meals or a refreshing dessert on a warm day. Serve it alongside savory dishes like glazed ham or roasted chicken for a delightful contrast. Garnish with extra chopped pecans or mint leaves for an elegant touch. It also pairs well with American recipes like Cole Slaw Topping or Marshmallow Chip Crunchies.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cherry salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If the salad becomes too firm after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Festive Cherry Salad contains roughly 137 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries instead of canned ones. Make sure to pit and chop them before adding to the salad. Fresh cherries will provide a firmer texture and a fresher flavor, enhancing the overall taste of this festive dish.
How long does the salad need to chill before serving?
The salad should chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. For best results, prepare it the night before serving. This allows the flavors to meld nicely and ensures a perfect, firm consistency.
Is there a way to make this salad sugar-free?
To make this salad sugar-free, you can use sugar-free gelatin and opt for unsweetened fruit like fresh cherries and pineapple. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness according to your taste using a sugar substitute, if desired.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).