Fruity Lime Jell-O Salad
A vibrant, creamy fruit salad with lime jell-o, pineapple, whipped cream, and crunchy pecans and cherries, perfect for refreshing gatherings or holiday dessert spreads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lime Jell-O in boiling water in a large bowl and chill until syrupy.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crushed pineapple.
- Stir the cream cheese mixture into the cooled gelatin.
- Fold in the whipped cream, chopped pecans, and chopped maraschino cherries.
- Pour the mixture into a 4-cup mold coated with non-stick cooking spray.
- Refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and substitute Greek yogurt for the whipped cream. You can also experiment with different flavors of Jell-O, like strawberry or orange, for a unique twist. If you prefer, add fresh fruit like berries or banana slices to enhance the flavor. Ensure the gelatin is cooled before mixing to maintain a fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This fruity lime Jell-O salad is a delightful side for barbecues and potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a refreshing dessert after a heavy meal. Consider garnishing with additional chopped pecans or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch. It also complements well with other American recipes like the Stars And Stripes Dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some firmness over time, but it will still taste delicious. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the Jell-O and cream. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruity Lime Jell-O Salad contains roughly 238 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% 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 type of fruit in this salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute the crushed pineapple with other fruits like diced peaches or mandarin oranges. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid to keep the salad from becoming too watery. Fresh fruits can also be added for extra texture and flavor.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This salad can be prepared a day in advance. After pouring the mixture into the mold, cover it well with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the Jell-O to set properly, resulting in a deliciously firm salad that’s ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using plant-based cream cheese and coconut whipped cream instead of regular cream. Ensure that the Jell-O you choose is vegan-friendly, as some brands contain gelatin. There are also gelatin alternatives like agar-agar that can be used to achieve a similar 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).