Irene Salad
A creamy, fruity salad with a tangy lime jello base, cottage cheese, pineapple, and mayonnaise, perfect for light desserts or potlucks, appealing to those who enjoy sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the lime jello, boiling water, salt, and sugar together and let it jell lightly.
- Take the mixture out of the refrigerator and add cottage cheese, mayonnaise, Pet milk, crushed pineapple, and pecans if desired.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat cottage cheese and a thicker mayonnaise. If you're out of lime jello, a mix of lemon and green food coloring can serve as a substitute. For a healthier twist, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Adding chopped fresh herbs can also elevate the flavor. This salad is reminiscent of other American recipes, making it a nostalgic dish.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a delightful side dish for barbecues or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside vegetarian recipes for a balanced meal. Consider topping it with additional pecans or fresh fruit for added texture and flavor. Enjoy it on its own or as part of a buffet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The jello may continue to set, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing as the texture may change. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irene Salad contains roughly 168 calories, with 6g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 645mg per serving (28% 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 a different flavor of jello?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of jello! While lime gives a refreshing tartness, lemon or orange jello can provide a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and color will change, so adjust other ingredients if necessary.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. The ingredients, including cottage cheese and jello, make it a tasty option for vegetarians. Just check the jello packaging to ensure it's made without gelatin from animal sources.
How can I make this salad more nutritious?
To enhance the nutritional value of this salad, consider adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and vitamins. You could also include a handful of spinach or kale, echoing the spirit of Super Spinach Squares, to boost its health benefits without compromising flavor.
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).