Jel-Cheese Salad*
A refreshing and creamy gelatin salad with pineapple and cheese, perfect for light desserts or festive gatherings, offering a balance of sweetness and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain juice from pineapple.
- Add enough water to the pineapple juice to make 1 cup of juice.
- Cook sugar and pineapple together for 5 minutes.
- Soak lemon jello in the pineapple juice until dissolved, then add to the hot pineapple-sugar mixture. Stir well.
- Allow mixture to cool.
- Fold in grated cheese and whipped evaporated milk.
- Pour the mixture into an ice tray.
- Place in freezer until firm.
- Cut into squares and serve on lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a dash of lemon juice or zest to the mixture. You can substitute the grated cheese with a sharper variety like cheddar for a bolder taste. If you prefer a lighter texture, use whipped cream instead of evaporated milk. For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts or mini marshmallows for additional texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Jel-Cheese Salad on a bed of fresh lettuce for a refreshing presentation. It pairs beautifully with a light vinaigrette or a side of fruit salad for a balanced meal. For a more substantial dish, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. This dish also makes a delightful appetizer at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the squares for up to a month. To serve after freezing, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying, as this will help maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jel-Cheese Salad* contains roughly 114 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% 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 to create unique variations of this salad. For instance, using lime jello can add a refreshing twist. Just be mindful that this may alter the overall taste and color of the dish.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To make the Jel-Cheese Salad healthier, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute. Additionally, consider using low-fat cheese and evaporated milk to cut down on calories and fat content while still maintaining flavor.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To adapt this recipe to be dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese alternative and substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk or almond milk. Ensure the jello is also dairy-free, as some brands may include dairy ingredients.
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).