Green Molded Salad
A colorful, tangy molded salad combining citrus flavors with creamy textures, perfect for potlucks or family gatherings seeking a unique, refreshing dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve the lemon and lime jello in 2 cups of hot water, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Add mayonnaise, evaporated milk, and crushed pineapple to the jello mixture, and stir well.
- Chop English walnuts and add them to the mixture.
- Gently fold in cottage cheese until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or dish and chill until firm, about 2-3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier alternative, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy flavor and added protein. If you're not a fan of walnuts, you can substitute with pecans or omit them altogether. To enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the mixture. This salad can also be made with different flavored jellos, so feel free to experiment with your favorite combinations.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant Green Molded Salad is perfect for potlucks and holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served as a side to a light lunch. For a complete meal, serve alongside Cottage Salad or a fresh fruit platter. Garnish with additional walnuts or a sprig of mint for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some firmness over time but will still be delicious. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change when thawed. To refresh the salad before serving, simply let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to restore its coolness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Molded Salad contains roughly 898 calories, with 11g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
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 jello for this salad?
Yes, you can use sugar-free jello to reduce the calorie count. The flavor will remain similar, but the texture may be slightly different. Just ensure that the jello is fully dissolved in hot water before mixing in the other ingredients.
Is it necessary to use evaporated milk?
While evaporated milk adds creaminess to the salad, you can substitute it with regular milk or a non-dairy milk alternative for a lighter version. Keep in mind that this may alter the final texture slightly, but the salad will still be enjoyable.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo and use a plant-based yogurt instead of cottage cheese. Ensure that the jello is free from gelatin, as many brands offer vegan jello options made from agar-agar or pectin.
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).