Frozen Pineapple And Cheese Salad
A cool, creamy salad featuring pineapple, marshmallows, and cheese, perfect for summer gatherings or festive occasions, offering a sweet and tangy flavor combo.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the Philadelphia cream cheese, salad dressing, and salt to a paste.
- Combine the drained crushed pineapple, quartered marshmallows, and maraschino cherries, then add to the paste mixture.
- Fold in whipped cream, then freeze in a refrigerator tray until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a creamy texture, ensure the Philadelphia cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you want a lighter version, substitute the whipped cream with a light whipped topping. For added flavor, consider folding in a bit of crushed nuts or using crushed fresh pineapple instead of canned. This salad pairs wonderfully with Amanda's Zucchini Pie as part of a summer meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Frozen Pineapple and Cheese Salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or potlucks. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a sweet treat after a light meal. For a colorful presentation, garnish with extra maraschino cherries and a sprinkle of salted nuts. It beautifully complements dishes like Decadent Fudge Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. It's best enjoyed within a week for optimal flavor and texture. To serve, allow the salad to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frozen Pineapple And Cheese Salad contains roughly 732 calories, with 11g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (86% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2539mg per serving (110% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to keep it frozen until you're ready to serve. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used for a brighter flavor. Just ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad. The texture will be different but equally delicious.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, consider using a vegan cream cheese or Greek yogurt. This will change the flavor slightly but will maintain a creamy texture.
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).