Holiday Frozen Cranberry Salad
A festive, creamy cranberry salad with a sweet-tart flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings and served chilled as a refreshing side or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the light cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and light mayonnaise; beat until light and fluffy.
- Add the whole cranberry sauce and crushed pineapple to the mixture.
- Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts, if desired.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of light mayonnaise. You can also substitute the pecans with chopped almonds or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free option. This dish benefits from a few hours in the freezer, so it's best made a day ahead. Serve it with Pecan Shortbreads for a delightful contrast in textures.
Serving Suggestions
This frozen cranberry salad is a festive addition to any holiday table and pairs beautifully with Ruth'S Eggplant Casserole or grilled meats. For a vibrant presentation, serve it in individual cups or bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves. It also makes a great side dish for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. To serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying. Avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Frozen Cranberry Salad contains roughly 562 calories, with 4g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% 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 fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
While fresh cranberries can be used, they need to be cooked down with sugar to create a sauce-like consistency. Canned cranberry sauce provides convenience and a consistent flavor, making it easier to achieve the desired taste and texture in this recipe.
How long can I keep this salad in the freezer?
You can keep this frozen cranberry salad in the freezer for up to one month. For the best taste and texture, consume it within the first two weeks. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making in advance. Prepare it a day or two before serving and let it freeze until solid. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal addition to your holiday spread.
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).