George Washington Salad
George Washington Salad is a nostalgic, sweet and creamy layered dessert featuring cherry Jell-O, fruit fillings, and a rich cream cheese topping. Its vibrant color and delightful textures make it a perfect treat for gatherings, especially those celebrating American history or holiday festivities, appealing to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 2 packages of cherry Jell-O according to the package directions and allow it to congeal.
- Once set, add the can of cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple to the Jell-O and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a serving dish and let it chill until firm.
- In the meantime, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then fold in the sour cream, sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the set Jell-O and fruit layer.
- Top with chopped nuts before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the Jell-O sets properly, use cold water as directed on the package. If you prefer a lighter option, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. For added flavor, you might include a splash of almond extract in the cream cheese mixture. This salad pairs well with American recipes like Western Salad or No Bake Fudge Cookies for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. For an exciting presentation, serve it in individual dessert cups. Pair it with a light summer dish like grilled chicken or a refreshing green salad. It also complements desserts such as Silk Pie or Apricot Sparkle for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the salad, as the Jell-O may separate upon thawing. Serve chilled straight from the fridge for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of George Washington Salad contains roughly 540 calories, with 7g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), potassium (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just ensure that the Jell-O is fully set before adding the cream cheese layer. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served the next day.
What can I substitute for cherry pie filling?
If you want to switch things up, you can use other fruit fillings like blueberry or strawberry, or even a mix of fresh fruits. Just ensure that the fruit complements the Jell-O flavor for the best results.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a healthier alternative without compromising the overall texture and flavor of the salad. Just keep in mind that it may alter the creaminess slightly.
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).