Grandma Connely'S Pineapple Salad
A creamy, fruity pineapple salad featuring sweet pineapple tidbits, marshmallows, pecans, and a luscious pineapple-flavored custard, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Reserve 1 cup of juice from the drained pineapple tidbits.
- Mix together the pineapple juice, sugar, flour, and beaten eggs in a saucepan.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine the pineapple tidbits, miniature marshmallows, and pecan pieces.
- Add the cooled pineapple juice mixture to the bowl and stir well.
- Gently fold in half a carton of Cool Whip until evenly incorporated.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting sugar with a sugar alternative like Stevia. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts can be used instead of pecans. To enhance the flavor, a splash of coconut extract can be added to the mixture. Make sure to stir the mixture continuously while cooking to prevent lumps. For a more tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This pineapple salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served as a light dessert. For a delightful addition, consider serving it alongside a slice of Delicious Applesauce Fruitcake for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld nicely as it sits, but the texture may change slightly. If it seems too thick after chilling, you can add a bit of pineapple juice to loosen it before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Connely'S Pineapple Salad contains roughly 262 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. 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 ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and makes it a convenient option for parties or potlucks.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the mixture. This will ensure that everyone can enjoy this delicious salad without any gluten concerns.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Just make sure to prepare it properly by cutting it into tidbits and saving the juice. Fresh pineapple will give the salad a vibrant flavor, although the texture may differ slightly from canned.
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).