Hot Pineapple And Cheese Salad
A warm, cheesy pineapple salad combining sweet, tangy pineapple with rich cheddar cheese, perfect for a comforting side or unique appetizer for entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a casserole dish.
- Bake at 300°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. If you want to reduce the sugar, you can substitute with a sugar alternative, adjusting to taste. For a twist, try using Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese instead of Cheddar. This dish is versatile and can be served warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a warm appetizer or side alongside grilled meats or a fresh green salad. It pairs beautifully with Poppy Seed-Lemon Loaf for a delightful contrast of flavors. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with chopped fresh herbs or toasted nuts.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salad in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 300°F for about 15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Pineapple And Cheese Salad contains roughly 217 calories, with 8g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used for a brighter flavor. Just make sure to cut it into uniform chunks for even cooking. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, as fresh pineapple has more moisture.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain meat. However, be mindful of the cheese used and ensure it is suitable for your dietary preferences.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve, but keep in mind that it tastes best when served hot.
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).