Jello Salad Mold
A colorful, tangy jello mold with cranberry and sour cream, complemented by nuts and savory spread, perfect for festive gatherings and cool, refreshing side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry jello in 2 cups of hot water and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cranberry sauce, chopped nuts, and the jar of Duke sandwich spread.
- Add the cooled jello mixture to the bowl and stir well.
- Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything thoroughly and pour into a mold or dish.
- Chill in the refrigerator until set, about 4 hours or overnight.
- Optional: Add more pickles or eggs as desired before setting.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra tangy flavor, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try adding mini marshmallows or fruit cocktail. You can also substitute chopped walnuts with pecans for a different texture. Be sure to let the jello cool completely before combining to prevent curdling the sour cream. This dish can be made a day ahead for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
This jello salad mold is a fun addition to any potluck or holiday gathering. It pairs beautifully with Chicken With Garlic Butter or can be served alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Consider garnishing with additional chopped nuts or fresh fruit for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the texture becomes too firm, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture and taste of the jello salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jello Salad Mold contains roughly 717 calories, with 13g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1036mg per serving (45% 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, feel free to experiment with different jello flavors such as raspberry or lime. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and color will change, but it can still be delicious. Each variation can offer a new twist to this classic recipe.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken broth and replace it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version. Additionally, consider using a plant-based sandwich spread to keep it fully vegetarian while maintaining a similar creamy texture.
How long does it take for the jello to set?
The jello salad typically takes about 4 hours to set in the refrigerator, but for best results, it's recommended to chill it overnight. This ensures that the flavors meld together and the texture firms up nicely for easier slicing.
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).