Jackie'S Cool Summer Salad
A refreshing summer salad combining sweet fruit with a creamy, sweetened pineapple-juice sauce, perfect for hot days and suitable for gatherings and family picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cornstarch, sugar, eggs, and reserved fruit juices in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to almost boiling, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Pour the thickened juice over the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, and cooked noodles.
- Refrigerate the salad overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Two hours before serving, gently mix in Cool Whip.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute Cool Whip with Greek yogurt. If acini de pepe is unavailable, orzo can be a great alternative. Make sure to drain the canned fruits well to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Cool Summer Salad is perfect for summer picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side dish alongside Broccoli Flounder Roll-Ups. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad tastes best when served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the juices.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jackie'S Cool Summer Salad contains roughly 1421 calories, with 23g protein, 297g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 858mg per serving (37% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it the night before to allow the flavors to meld together. Just remember to fold in the Cool Whip a couple of hours before serving for optimal texture.
What can I substitute for the eggs in the recipe?
If you're looking to make this recipe egg-free, you can use a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Each egg typically substitutes well with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until it thickens.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To add more color and nutrition, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or sliced strawberries. Not only do they enhance the visual appeal, but they also offer a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the fruits.
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).