Grandma'S Pineapple Salad
A light and fruity pineapple salad with creamy cheese and sweet cherries, perfect for a refreshingly easy dessert or side dish suitable for family gatherings and summer meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the dry Jell-O with softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Drain the juice from the fruit and add enough water to make 1 pint of liquid.
- Heat the juice to boiling point.
- Gradually blend the hot juice into the cheese-Jell-O mixture, stirring until smooth.
- Allow the mixture to cool, then pour over the fruit in a serving dish.
- Refrigerate until set, then serve on a lettuce leaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing with the dry Jell-O. You can substitute the white cherries with canned mandarin oranges for a different flavor, or use a low-fat cream cheese if desired. If you want a more pronounced fruit flavor, consider adding other fresh fruits like sliced bananas or strawberries. This dish pairs well with Peggy'S Banana Pudding for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing touch. It makes a delightful side dish at picnics or potlucks and pairs beautifully with light grilled meats or sandwiches. For an added crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before serving, or enjoy alongside Cinnamon Carrot Muffins for a sweet brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad is best enjoyed chilled, but if it sets too firm, you can gently stir it to loosen the texture. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the texture and flavor of the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Pineapple Salad contains roughly 95 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 7g 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when it's time to enjoy it.
What can I substitute for lemon Jell-O?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute lemon Jell-O with lime or orange Jell-O for a unique twist. Keep in mind that each flavor will slightly alter the overall taste of the salad, so choose one that complements the fruit you use.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it does not contain any meat or animal-derived ingredients. Just ensure to check the packaging of the Jell-O, as some brands may use gelatin derived from animals. There are vegetarian-friendly gelatin alternatives available that can be used.
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).