Grandma'S Pear Salad
A creamy, fruity pear salad with lime jello, cream cheese, and crunchy pecans, perfect as a light dessert or refreshing side dish for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lime jello in 1 cup hot pear juice.
- Beat in cream cheese while the mixture is hot.
- Let the mixture set for 10 minutes.
- Stir in mashed drained pears and cool whip.
- Top with crushed pecans.
- Refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute. If you can't find lime jello, lemon or orange jello can work in a pinch, though they will alter the flavor. Ensure the pear juice is hot enough to fully dissolve the jello and blend smoothly with the cream cheese. Mixing in a dash of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pear salad as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal or alongside a savory dish like roasted chicken. It pairs beautifully with Luscious Lemon Drops for a delightful finish. For a more festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pear salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If the salad becomes too thick after refrigeration, you can stir in a splash of pear juice or a bit of cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Pear Salad contains roughly 131 calories, with 2g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 13g 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 pears instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pears! Just ensure they are ripe and sweet. Peel and dice them before adding to the mixture, and you may want to adjust the sweetness to taste since canned pears are often packed in syrup.
How long does this salad need to chill?
It's best to refrigerate the pear salad for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to set properly. If you're short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes can still provide a decent chill.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator. It's a great make-ahead option for gatherings or holidays.
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).