Fruited Cherry Salad
A vibrant, fruity cherry salad with bananas and nuts, combining tart cherries, sweet pineapple, and crunchy nuts, perfect for light desserts or potlucks, appealing to fruit lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the cherries, pineapple with juices, sugar, flour, and food coloring.
- Cook until thickened.
- Remove from stove; add the gelatin.
- Cool until slightly thickened, then stir in the bananas and nuts.
- Chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh cherries if they're in season, or experiment with different nuts like pecans or walnuts. If you prefer a healthier version, substitute the sugar with honey or a sugar alternative. The orange gelatin can be replaced with a different flavor, such as lemon or lime, to create a unique twist. This dish is a fun addition to any summer picnic or holiday gathering.
Serving Suggestions
This Fruited Cherry Salad makes an excellent side dish for barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Ruby'S Ruby Red Tea for a refreshing meal. For a more substantial dessert, serve it alongside Vanilla Ice Cream or Liza'S Special Blueberry Pie for a delightful contrast of flavors. Garnish with additional chopped nuts for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can be kept for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing. If you want to serve it again, allow it to come to room temperature before serving, or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruited Cherry Salad contains roughly 380 calories, with 8g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 4g 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 cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the mixture to avoid excess moisture. This will help maintain the desired consistency of the salad.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this Fruited Cherry Salad gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. This will thicken the mixture without affecting the flavor, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, ensure that the gelatin you use is plant-based, as traditional gelatin is derived from animal products. You can find vegan alternatives made from agar-agar or pectin. This allows you to enjoy the salad while adhering to a vegan lifestyle.
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).