Geri'S Salad
Geri's Salad is a creamy, fruity dessert with a delightful pineapple flavor, perfect for gatherings and family dinners offering a sweet, cool treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain 2 cups of crushed pineapple.
- In a saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of sugar and the drained pineapple; bring to a boil until the sugar forms a syrup.
- In a mixing bowl, beat 2 softened 8 oz. cream cheeses until smooth.
- Add the pineapple syrup to the cream cheese and blend well.
- Dissolve 2 packets of Knox gelatin in a small amount of hot water, then add to the pineapple and cream cheese mixture, stirring until combined.
- Fold in the prepared Dream Whip according to package instructions.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or serving dish and chill until set, about 2-3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using reduced-sugar cream cheese and sugar substitutes like Stevia. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to prevent lumps in the mixture. You can also replace Dream Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste. Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Geri's Salad is perfect for potlucks and gatherings, serving as a refreshing side dish or dessert. Consider pairing it with savory dishes like grilled chicken or burgers to balance flavors. It also complements other summer salads like Dumpy Salad, making for a colorful and varied spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This will help it soften up slightly for easier scooping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Geri'S Salad contains roughly 244 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. It also contributes 3g 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 make this salad in advance?
Yes, Geri's Salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just ensure it is well chilled before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
What can I substitute for Dream Whip?
If you don't have Dream Whip, you can use whipped heavy cream instead. Just whip the cream until soft peaks form and gently fold it into the mixture for a similar texture and flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, Geri's Salad is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. It's a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).