Holiday Cranberry Jello Salad
A vibrant and refreshing holiday cranberry jello salad combining fruity flavors and crunch from walnuts, perfect for festive gatherings and adding a colorful touch to any table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the large package of red jello in hot water.
- Add cold water to the dissolved jello and refrigerate until partially set.
- Once partially set, add drained mandarin oranges, undrained crushed pineapple, cranberry sauce, and chopped walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Chill until the jello is fully set.
- Serve and enjoy this festive cranberry jello salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on the classic flavor, consider using raspberry or cherry jello instead of red jello. You can also add chopped apples or grapes for extra texture and taste. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts. Ensure the jello is only partially set before adding fruits to prevent them from sinking to the bottom. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This Holiday Cranberry Jello Salad pairs beautifully with savory dishes like roasted turkey or glazed ham. Consider serving it alongside sides like Linda'S Spiced Pretzels for a delightful crunch. It also makes a colorful addition to a festive potluck spread or holiday buffet, bringing a cheerful touch to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the jello becomes too soft after a few days, you can refresh its texture by briefly placing it in the freezer for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing the salad, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cranberry Jello Salad contains roughly 515 calories, with 11g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh fruits, but you may need to adjust the sweetness and acidity. Fresh oranges, pineapple chunks, or even pomegranate seeds can be great substitutes, but make sure to slightly sweeten the mixture if using tart fruits.
How long does it take for the jello to set?
Typically, the jello will take about 4 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. If you're in a hurry, placing it in the freezer for 30-60 minutes can help speed up the setting process, but keep an eye on it to avoid freezing.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
This recipe is not vegan due to the use of jello, which often contains gelatin derived from animal products. However, you can find vegan jello alternatives made with agar-agar or pectin, allowing you to enjoy a similar dessert while adhering to a vegan diet.
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).