Jello Red Cherry Salad
A vibrant cherry salad with cola and pineapple flavors, layered with pecans, perfect for festive gatherings or refreshing summer desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat cherries, sugar, and water for 3 minutes.
- Pour the mixture over the gelatin and stir until the gelatin is dissolved.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add cola, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans.
- Let the mixture set partially, then stir gently and pour into a mold.
- Refrigerate until fully set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh cherries instead of canned. If you're looking for a vegan option, substitute the gelatin with agar-agar. Make sure the water is hot enough to dissolve the jello completely. You can also adjust the sweetness by reducing sugar if desired. To enhance texture, try adding crushed nuts or mini marshmallows.
Serving Suggestions
This Jello Red Cherry Salad is a delightful side dish for holiday gatherings or family dinners. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like Grandmother'S Special Pork Chops or Fried Apple Pies (Turnovers)(Very Old Recipe). Garnish with additional pecans or whipped cream for an extra touch. It's perfect for potlucks or summer barbecues.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent it from becoming too watery, avoid storing it at room temperature. This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so no reheating is necessary. Just serve straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jello Red Cherry Salad contains roughly 173 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cherry jello gives the salad its classic flavor, feel free to experiment with other fruit flavors like raspberry or strawberry. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and color will change. Mixing flavors can create a fun and unique dessert.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
The salad typically takes around 4-6 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. To speed up the process, you can place it in the freezer for about 1 hour, but be sure to check and remove it before it freezes solid. For best results, let it set overnight.
Can I add other fruits to the salad?
Yes! You can enhance the salad by adding fruits like diced apples, mandarin oranges, or even sliced strawberries. Just ensure that any additional fruits are well-drained to prevent excess moisture. This will add more flavor and texture to your Jello salad.
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).