Fruit Tra-A-La
A fruity, creamy jello salad with pineapple, bananas, and marshmallows, perfect for parties and family gatherings, offering a sweet and refreshing flavor combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook flour, sugar, pineapple juice, salt, and egg in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely.
- Fold in Cool Whip into the cooled mixture.
- Dissolve lemon jello in 2 cups hot water, then add 2 cups 7-Up, crushed pineapple (drained), and cubed bananas.
- Pour the jello mixture into a mold or serving dish.
- Spread the cooled cream mixture over the jello layer.
- Top with miniature marshmallows.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using sugar-free jello and a low-calorie soda instead of 7-Up. You can also substitute the bananas with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for variety. Make sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid excess liquid that can affect the jello's set. When heating the flour mixture, constant stirring is key to achieving the right thickness without lumps.
Serving Suggestions
This colorful dessert is perfect for potlucks or summer gatherings. It pairs beautifully with light salads, such as Liz'S Congealed Salad, or can be served alongside grilled meats for a delightful contrast. For an added touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy complement.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The jello may release some liquid over time, but it will still taste great. It's not recommended to freeze this dessert as the texture will change. If serving from the fridge, ensure it's chilled and ready for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Tra-A-La contains roughly 398 calories, with 7g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 5g 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple; however, be cautious as fresh pineapple contains enzymes that may prevent the jello from setting properly. To avoid this, you can cook the fresh pineapple briefly before adding it to the mixture.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this dessert vegan, substitute the egg in the flour mixture with a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Use a dairy-free whipped topping instead of Cool Whip and check that the jello brand you choose is vegan-friendly, as some contain gelatin.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making a day ahead. Just prepare the jello and cream layers, assemble, and refrigerate overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or meal prep.
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).