Holly Berry Salad
A festive and colorful strawberry jello salad with applesauce, celery, and walnuts, topped with whipped cream and mayonnaise dressing—perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil water and red hots in a saucepan until the candies are dissolved.
- Add the strawberry jello to the hot mixture and stir until completely dissolved.
- Allow the mixture to cool until slightly thickened.
- Stir in applesauce, finely chopped celery, and chopped walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into a well-oiled 8 x 8-inch pan and refrigerate until set.
- Prepare the dressing by mixing whipped cream, mayonnaise, a pinch of cinnamon, and green food coloring.
- Top each served portion with the whipped cream dressing before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider using flavored jello or adding sliced fruits like strawberries or bananas for added freshness. If you're short on time, pre-made whipped topping can substitute for the whipped cream. Adjust the sweetness of the salad by varying the amount of red hots or applesauce. This recipe is a great example of American recipes that blend sweet and savory elements.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Holly Berry Salad as a festive side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a light dessert. Consider serving it alongside Aunt Lola White's Cream Cheese Pound Cake for a delightful contrast of flavors. Garnish with additional walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may soften slightly, but it will still taste delicious. To refresh the texture before serving, you can gently stir it or serve it with a little extra whipped cream dressing on top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holly Berry Salad contains roughly 294 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 24g fat.
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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Holly Berry Salad a day ahead of time. Just ensure it's well covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the taste.
Can I use a different flavor of jello?
Absolutely! While strawberry jello is traditional, you can experiment with raspberry or cherry jello for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that color and taste may vary slightly.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. Just be sure to check the ingredients of the jello and whipped cream you use to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.
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).