Jellied Cranberry Salad
A vibrant, fruity jellied cranberry salad with mandarin oranges and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a refreshing side dish for any special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the raspberry gelatin in hot water.
- Add cold water and chill slightly.
- Blend the drained mandarin oranges, cranberry sauce, and chopped nuts until slightly thickened.
- Pour the mixture into a 1-quart mold.
- Chill until the gelatin is set.
- Serve with sour cream or softened cream cheese, blended with a small amount of Cool Whip or whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a tablespoon of sugar to the gelatin mixture. You can substitute chopped walnuts with pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version. Make sure to dissolve the gelatin completely in hot water to avoid lumps.
Serving Suggestions
This jellied cranberry salad is a delightful addition to any holiday meal and pairs beautifully with Fast Yeast Rolls. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as a refreshing side dish at potlucks. For a richer experience, complement it with a dollop of sour cream or blended cream cheese on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing the salad as gelatin-based salads do not freeze well. If you need to serve it again, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jellied Cranberry Salad contains roughly 354 calories, with 5g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 15g fat.
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 such as cherry or orange for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile of the salad will change accordingly.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this jellied cranberry salad vegan, substitute the gelatin with a plant-based gelatin alternative like agar-agar. Ensure that all other ingredients, like cream cheese, are also vegan-friendly.
What can I serve this salad with?
This salad works well as a side dish with turkey, ham, or even as a refreshing dessert. It can also be served with a variety of American recipes, making it versatile for any meal.
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).