Grandma'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant, sweet-tart cranberry salad with grapes, marshmallows, nuts, and pineapple, finished with whipped cream—perfect for holiday gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind the cranberries and add sugar, then mix well.
- Heat pineapple juice with flour until it thickens, then let it cool and set aside.
- Combine the cranberry-sugar mixture with halved grapes, miniature marshmallows, broken nuts, and pineapple chunks.
- Add the cooled juice-flour mixture to the mixture and stir well.
- Gently fold in whipped heavy cream with vanilla until evenly combined.
- Chill the salad until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter salad, consider using a blend of fresh and dried fruits like raisins or chopped apples. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut cream. Make sure to wash and dry the cranberries thoroughly before grinding to enhance the flavor. This salad can be made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant salad as a refreshing side dish at holiday gatherings or potlucks. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats and can be a delightful addition to brunch menus. For a festive touch, garnish with additional nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It could also complement dishes like Classic Peanut Butter Pie for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture may change slightly due to the moisture from the whipped cream, but the flavors will still be delicious. Avoid freezing the salad as it may become watery once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 126 calories, with 2g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
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 frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them prior to grinding. Frozen cranberries may have a slightly different texture, but they will still work well in this recipe.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
Adding diced apples, sliced strawberries, or even citrus segments can enhance the color and flavor profile of the salad. Experiment with seasonal fruits to make it visually appealing and add freshness.
Is there a way to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry mixture and the juice-flour mixture a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just fold in the whipped cream right before serving to maintain its light, airy texture.
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).