Jean'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant cranberry salad featuring tart cranberry sauce, sweet pineapple, crunchy nuts, and a jellied orange flavor, perfect for festive gatherings and holiday tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry Jell-O in 2 cups boiling water, then add orange juice and the juice from the pineapple, with enough water to make 1 1/2 cups liquid.
- Let the mixture stand in the refrigerator until it begins to congeal.
- Add the drained cranberry sauce, drained crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts to the semi-set Jell-O mixture.
- Mix well and pour into a mold.
- Let the salad congeal completely in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using sugar-free Jell-O or experimenting with different flavored gelatin. You can substitute walnuts or pecans for the nuts, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, a tablespoon of honey can enhance the flavor. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess liquid in your salad.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry salad is a delightful addition to holiday meals, pairing wonderfully with dishes like turkey or ham. For a festive touch, serve it alongside Abagail Adams' Champagne Punch. Garnish with a few whole cranberries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color. It also makes a refreshing side dish for summer picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be served straight from the fridge; there's no need to reheat it. If you notice any separation, gently stir before serving to recombine the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 324 calories, with 4g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of potassium (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (11% 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 can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure it is fully set in the refrigerator before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier!
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned?
While fresh cranberries can be used, they should be cooked down with sugar to achieve a similar consistency and sweetness. Canned cranberry sauce provides a smoother texture and easier preparation for this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
The recipe can be made vegan by ensuring that the Jell-O is plant-based, as some gelatin products are not vegan-friendly. You can also use a fruit juice concentrate instead of frozen orange juice for a completely vegan option.
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).