Jellied Cranberry Cheese Salad
A refreshing jellied cranberry cheese salad combining tangy cranberries, lemon gelatin, and creamy cheese, perfect for festive gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve red cinnamon candies in boiling water; add lemon flavored gelatin and lemon juice.
- Stir to dissolve gelatin and cool to room temperature.
- Add cranberries (jellied or whole), beating with a rotary beater if using jellied cranberry sauce.
- Pour half of the cranberry gelatin mixture into a 9-inch square pan.
- Set aside the remaining cranberry gelatin mixture at room temperature and cover.
- Chill the mixture in the pan until firm, about 2 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant color, use fresh cranberries instead of canned. You can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. If you prefer a sweeter salad, increase the amount of red cinnamon candies or add a bit of sugar to the mixture. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before adding the cranberries for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Jellied Cranberry Cheese Salad as a festive side dish at holiday gatherings, where it pairs beautifully with Sweet Bread French Toast. It can also be a refreshing addition to a summer picnic spread. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or fresh mint for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To serve, simply slice and plate from the pan. If the salad has set too firmly, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jellied Cranberry Cheese Salad contains roughly 1617 calories, with 26g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 137g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (149% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1354mg per serving (59% 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 gelatin?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of gelatin to create a unique taste. Raspberry or cherry gelatin can complement the cranberries nicely, adding a different fruity twist to your salad.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, use plant-based cream cheese and replace the gelatin with agar-agar. Ensure the mayonnaise is also vegan-friendly. This will maintain the texture while catering to vegan dietary needs.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure you allow ample time for it to chill and set properly. Cover it well to keep it fresh in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
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).