Grandmother'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant, tangy cranberry salad with cherry jello, crushed pineapple, and ground fresh fruits and vegetables, perfect for holiday gatherings or a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry jello in boiling water.
- Add the reserved pineapple juice and enough water to make 2 cups of liquid.
- Add the crushed pineapple, ground cranberries, ground orange, ground celery, and sugar to the jello mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a large mold or 12 individual molds.
- Refrigerate until the salad is set.
- Serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting raspberry jello for a different flavor profile. If you want a healthier version, reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. Be sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess liquid, which can affect the setting of the salad. Ground cranberries can be tart, so balance them with a bit more sugar if desired. This salad pairs beautifully with Fresh Fruit Frappe.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry salad is perfect as a festive side dish during holiday meals, complementing savory dishes like roast turkey. Serve it chilled on a bed of lettuce for a refreshing contrast. It also makes a delightful addition to brunch spreads or potlucks. For a complete meal idea, consider serving it alongside Baked Cardamom Applesauce for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad maintains its texture well, but it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to serve it again, simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing to ease removal from the mold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 139 calories, with 0g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 cranberries instead of ground ones?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but they should be processed in a food processor until finely chopped. Keep in mind that fresh cranberries are more tart than ground cranberries, so you may want to adjust the sugar accordingly to balance the flavors.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, the salad needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to set properly. However, for best results, allow it to chill overnight. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully, and the texture is firm enough for slicing.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is great for making ahead. You can prepare it up to two days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge, and enjoy the convenience of having a delicious dish ready for your gathering.
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).