Jello Fruit Salad
A vibrant and creamy fruit salad featuring gelatin, pineapple, cranberry sauce, and nuts, perfect for parties or potlucks, offering a delightful mix of sweet and tart flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the jello and crushed pineapple in a heavy saucepan.
- Heat over low heat until the jello is dissolved.
- Stir in the softened cream cheese until well blended.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cranberry sauce and chopped nuts.
- Chill until the mixture starts to thicken.
- Blend in the Milnot (evaporated milk).
- Pour into a mold and chill thoroughly until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using sugar-free jello or a natural sweetener. Chopped walnuts or pecans work well as nut substitutes and add a nice crunch. For a twist, add mini marshmallows or shredded coconut. This Jello Fruit Salad can also be made ahead of time for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Jello Fruit Salad as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with Barbecued Salmon or can be a delightful dessert option alongside Delicate Lemon Pie. Consider garnishing with fresh fruit or mint leaves for an appealing presentation. This dish is versatile and fits well into both casual and festive occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Jello Fruit Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best served chilled, so if you notice it has softened, simply pop it back in the fridge for a short time before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become grainy once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jello Fruit Salad contains roughly 536 calories, with 8g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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?
Absolutely! While strawberry or red fruit jello is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors such as raspberry, cherry, or even orange to suit your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the salad will change accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream for a similar texture. Ensure that the jello you choose is also dairy-free and check for any other ingredients that may contain dairy.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, the Jello Fruit Salad will take about 4 to 6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before to allow ample time for chilling. If you’re in a hurry, a few hours should suffice, but the texture may not be as firm.
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).