Holiday Cranberry-Jello Salad(Teacher Favorite)
A vibrant, sweet-tart cranberry and fruit Jello salad perfect for holiday gatherings, combining cherries, pineapple, cranberries, and nuts for a refreshing treat enjoyed chilled.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make the cherry Jello according to the package instructions, using half the recommended amount of cold water.
- Add the crushed pineapple with its juice to the prepared Jello.
- Add the dark sweet cherries with their juice.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and chopped cranberries.
- Pour the mixture into a dish and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours until set.
- Cut into squares to serve.
- Top with whipped cream before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the Jello is fully dissolved before adding other ingredients. If you prefer a less sweet salad, consider using fresh or frozen cranberries instead of canned ones. You can substitute walnuts for pecans or use a different flavor of Jello for a unique twist. This dish can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry-Jello salad is a delightful addition to any holiday table and pairs beautifully with Mo'S Famous Barbecue. Serve it as a refreshing side dish alongside roasted meats or other festive dishes. For an extra touch, consider topping each serving with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
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 it. If the Jello begins to separate, simply give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cranberry-Jello Salad(Teacher Favorite) contains roughly 464 calories, with 5g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. 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 cranberries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but they should be chopped finely and may require some extra sweetening. Fresh cranberries are tart, so consider adding a bit of sugar to balance the flavor if you choose to use them.
How long does the salad need to chill?
The salad should chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. For best results, you can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make this salad vegan, ensure that the Jello you use is plant-based. There are several brands that offer vegan gelatin alternatives. You can also make your own fruit-based jello using agar-agar for a completely vegan version.
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).