Gertie'S Salad
Gertie's Salad is a delightful, fruity dessert combining pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped cream, with a hint of maraschino cherries, perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, cornstarch, pineapple juice, and beaten egg in a saucepan.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Allow the cooked mixture to cool.
- Cut the marshmallows into pieces.
- Add drained pineapple and mix well.
- Combine the cooled mixture with pineapple and marshmallows.
- Fold in whipped cream and garnish with maraschino cherries before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat whipped cream or a non-dairy alternative. If you want more texture, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. You can substitute the crushed pineapple with other fruits such as peaches or pears, but make sure to drain them thoroughly. This salad can also be made a day in advance for easier preparation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Gertie’s Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Plain Dinner Rolls for a complete meal. You can also use it as a light dessert after a hearty main dish. For added flair, serve in individual cups topped with a cherry.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The whipped cream may start to separate, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of the whipped cream and marshmallows can be affected when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gertie'S Salad contains roughly 397 calories, with 7g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium 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 use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, using fresh pineapple is a great option! Just ensure it is ripe and juicy. Cut it into small pieces and make sure to drain any excess juice before adding it to the salad to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the whipped cream with a plant-based whipped topping and use a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer instead of the beaten egg. Ensure that the marshmallows are also vegan, as some brands contain gelatin.
What can I do if my mixture doesn’t thicken?
If your mixture doesn’t thicken after cooking, it may need more cornstarch. Mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the mixture and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.
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).