Grandma Cole'S Thanksgiving Jello
A nostalgic, fruity Jello salad featuring lemon flavor, pineapple, maraschino cherries, and fluffy cottage cheese, perfect for holiday gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the lemon Jello with the juice from the drained pineapple to replace part of the water called for in the recipe.
- Add the drained pineapple tidbits and sliced maraschino cherries to the Jello mixture.
- Let the Jello set in the refrigerator until firm.
- Fork the set Jello apart into small pieces.
- In a separate bowl, mix cottage cheese and Cool Whip until well combined.
- Fold the cottage cheese mixture into the Jello and fruit mixture before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding chopped nuts or using a different flavor of Jello, such as raspberry or orange. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute low-fat cottage cheese and sugar-free Jello. Be sure to stir gently when folding in the cottage cheese mixture to maintain the texture of the Jello. This dish can be made a day ahead to save time on Thanksgiving.
Serving Suggestions
This Thanksgiving Jello is a delightful side dish that can be served alongside turkey and other holiday favorites. It pairs beautifully with Easy Stuffed Eggs for a festive touch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or as a refreshing dessert option. Garnish with additional maraschino cherries or mint leaves for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The Jello may lose some firmness over time, but it will still taste delicious. Avoid freezing, as the texture will be compromised once thawed. If serving after a day in the fridge, give it a quick stir before serving to refresh its appearance.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Cole'S Thanksgiving Jello contains roughly 66 calories, with 3g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to use a sweet variety and chop it into small tidbits. Keep in mind that fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can affect the setting of the Jello, so it’s best to cook or freeze the fresh pineapple before adding it to the mixture.
How long does it take for the Jello to set?
Typically, Jello takes about 4 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving to ensure it is fully firm. If you’re short on time, placing it in the freezer for about 30 minutes can speed up the process, but keep an eye on it to avoid freezing.
Can I make this Jello recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based alternative to cottage cheese, such as tofu blended until smooth or a cashew cream. Additionally, select a vegan Jello substitute available in health food stores that does not contain gelatin, ensuring the entire dish meets vegan standards.
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).