Harlequin Salad
A colorful, sweet and tangy salad featuring cream cheese, pineapple, cherries, pecans, and apples, perfect for holiday gatherings and fruit lovers seeking a creamy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, thoroughly blend cream cheese, mayo, lemon juice, and salt.
- Stir in drained crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, chopped pecans, and diced apples.
- Fold in Cool Whip and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese or mayo. If you're short on time, canned crushed pineapple works as a quick substitute, but be sure to drain it well. You can also add other fruits like grapes or mandarin oranges for variety, enhancing the flavor and texture. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this colorful Harlequin Salad as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Extra Special Dinner Rolls for a well-rounded meal. For a complete picnic spread, consider serving it alongside grilled meats or a light pasta salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If the salad becomes too watery after sitting, simply stir it gently before serving to refresh its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harlequin Salad contains roughly 158 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1873mg per serving (81% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. However, it's best to fold in any whipped topping just before serving to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming too soft.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or sunflower seeds. Each option will add a unique taste and crunch to the salad while maintaining its delightful texture.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Harlequin Salad is entirely vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for those following a vegetarian diet. Just ensure that any additional ingredients you add, like whipped topping, are also vegetarian-friendly to keep the dish compliant.
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).