Large Pineapple Orange Salad
A vibrant, fruity salad combining pineapple, mandarin oranges, and cottage cheese, lightly sweetened with orange Jell-O and topped with Cool Whip—perfect for casual gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the drained crushed pineapple, drained mandarin oranges, and cottage cheese in a bowl.
- Add the dry orange Jell-O to the fruit and cottage cheese mixture and stir well.
- Fold in the Cool Whip until the salad is evenly combined.
- Chill briefly if desired before serving. The salad sets up quickly and is very tasty.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese and reduced-fat Cool Whip. You can also substitute fresh pineapple and oranges for canned if you prefer a fresher taste. Adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans can give a nice crunch. Ensure all fruit is well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for potlucks or summer barbecues. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a refreshing side dish to complement spicy foods. It pairs beautifully with Pineapple Mandarin Cream Cake for a delightful dessert combo. Garnish with mint leaves for an added touch before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may become a bit watery over time, so give it a good stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the Cool Whip and cottage cheese may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Large Pineapple Orange Salad contains roughly 701 calories, with 21g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (120% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (84% of the Daily Value), and protein (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1072mg per serving (47% 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 fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple and mandarin oranges can add a vibrant flavor and texture to the salad. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes and drain any juices to avoid a watery consistency.
Is there a way to make this salad healthier?
Yes! You can use low-fat versions of cottage cheese and Cool Whip, or even Greek yogurt as a substitute for a protein boost. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of Jell-O or use a sugar-free version to cut down on added sugars.
How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh as the flavors meld and the texture remains optimal in the first couple of days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before serving.
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).