*Fruit Cheese Salad
A refreshing fruit cheese salad combining sweet fruits with creamy whipped topping and tangy lemon jello, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light dessert option.
Ingredients
- miniature marshmallows ⓘ
- crushed pineapple, drained ⓘ
- sliced bananas (about 3)
- apricots, drained ⓘ
- 1 large package lemon jello
- 1 cup pineapple juice (from drained crushed pineapple) ⓘ
- 1/2 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1 beaten egg ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons butter ⓘ
- 1 package Dream Whip (makes 2 cups when whipped) ⓘ
Instructions
- In a 13 x 9 x 2-inch dish, layer miniature marshmallows, crushed pineapple, sliced bananas, and apricots.
- Prepare lemon jello as directed on the package and pour over the layered fruit.
- Let the salad congeal in the refrigerator until set, preferably overnight.
- Serve chilled as a light dessert or sweet salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or sour cream to the salad before serving. You can substitute the miniature marshmallows with chopped fresh fruit or a different type of soft candy if desired. If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup or omit it altogether for a more tart flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Fruit Cheese Salad as a light dessert or alongside grilled meats for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Beef-Eggplant Bake or Baked Pumpkin Custard for a balanced meal. Consider garnishing with additional fresh fruit or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if it has been stored, give it a gentle stir before serving to incorporate any separated juices. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of *Fruit Cheese Salad contains roughly 155 calories, with 2g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% 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 a different flavor of jello for this salad?
Yes, you can experiment with different jello flavors such as strawberry or orange for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so choose a flavor that complements the fruits used in the salad.
How long should I let the salad congeal?
For best results, allow the salad to congeal in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This gives the flavors time to meld and ensures a firm texture that holds together well when served.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is ideal for make-ahead preparations. You can assemble it a day in advance and let it chill overnight, making it a convenient option for gatherings or potlucks.
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).