Great Grandma'S Jello Salad

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A nostalgic, creamy fruit salad with cottage cheese, pineapple, and nuts, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, offering a sweet and tangy flavor combo.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 large container cottage cheese
  • 1 large can diced pineapple
  • 1 large box strawberry Jell-O
  • 1 to 2 bags shelled pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, mix cottage cheese, diced pineapple, Jell-O, and nuts.
  2. Let set in the icebox for 2 to 3 hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using whipped topping instead of cottage cheese, or try Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you want a different flavor, substitute strawberry Jell-O with raspberry or cherry. Chopped fresh fruit can also be added for extra freshness. Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to maintain the texture. This dish can be served alongside other American recipes for a delightful potluck spread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Jan'S Praline Bars for dessert. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or burgers. Garnish with additional nuts or fresh fruit for an appealing presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may release some liquid as it sits, so stir gently before serving again. It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the cottage cheese and Jell-O may change once thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Great Grandma'S Jello Salad contains roughly 315 calories, with 5g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value).

315 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.2g 10% DV
Total Fat 19.1g 25% DV
Carbs 34.5g 13% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 25.5g 51% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 88.5mg 4% DV
Potassium 155.5mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 4.3mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 10.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 2.2mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 42.8mg 3% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 sugar-free Jell-O for this recipe?

Yes, you can use sugar-free Jell-O to reduce the calorie content. The flavor and texture may be slightly different, but it will still set properly and taste great.

How long does this salad need to set?

The salad should set in the icebox for at least 2 to 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the Jell-O to firm up properly, ensuring a better texture when served.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Absolutely! Adding fruits like sliced bananas, strawberries, or mandarin oranges can enhance the flavor and texture of the salad. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as it may affect the overall consistency.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →