Fresh Cranberry Salad
A vibrant and tangy cranberry salad featuring fresh cranberries and zesty orange flavors, complemented by a layered Jell-O mixture. Perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions, it offers a refreshing balance of sweetness and tartness that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind and mix the cranberries, orange (peel and all), and sugar, then let it set.
- Mix strawberry Jell-O, orange Jell-O, hot water, cold water, and sugar. Put in refrigerator until it starts to jell.
- Once the Jell-O mixture begins to set, combine it with the cranberry-orange mixture and let it set overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a finer texture, consider using a food processor to grind the cranberries and orange. If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the sugar to 1/3 cup. You can also substitute the Jell-O with a vegan alternative for a plant-based version. This dish can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant salad chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside roasted turkey or ham. It pairs beautifully with the Easy Sherbet Punch, creating a festive spread. Garnish with mint leaves for an elegant touch and consider serving it in individual cups for a fun presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad will continue to thicken as it sits. If the salad becomes too firm, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Cranberry Salad contains roughly 249 calories, with 4g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before grinding. Fresh cranberries provide a brighter flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the sugar if they taste sweeter.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
The cranberry salad can last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. It's best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal freshness and flavor, but it will still taste good after a few days.
Can I make this salad without Jell-O?
Yes, you can create a similar texture using agar-agar or gelatin as an alternative to Jell-O. Simply dissolve the agar-agar in boiling water and mix it with the cranberry-orange mixture. This version can cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan recipes.
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).