Lemon Angel Salad
A light and refreshing lemon-flavored salad featuring pineapple and cream cheese, perfect for a cool dessert or side dish that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lemon jello in 1 1/3 cups hot water.
- Blend the drained crushed pineapple and softened cream cheese into the dissolved jello.
- Pour the mixture into a 7 x 11-inch or 9 x 13-inch casserole pan.
- Chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative. If you're short on time, you can use instant lemon pudding mix instead of jello for a creamier texture. Make sure to blend the cream cheese thoroughly to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth and uniform consistency. This dish is also versatile; try adding in some chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lemon Angel Salad chilled for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a light side dish for summer picnics. Consider garnishing with fresh mint or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for added flavor and presentation. This dish is perfect for gatherings or as a sweet ending to a meal, complementing lighter fare like salads or seafood.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad can also be frozen for up to a month, but the texture may change upon thawing. If you plan to serve it after freezing, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Avoid refreezing after thawing to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Angel Salad contains roughly 180 calories, with 2g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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, you can experiment with different jello flavors like strawberry or orange for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, but the overall texture and method remain the same. This flexibility allows you to tailor the salad to your taste or seasonal fruits.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, the salad will take about 2-4 hours to set in the refrigerator. For quicker results, you can place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes, but be sure to monitor it closely to avoid freezing. Once set, it will have a delightful texture that's perfect for serving.
Can I add fruit to the salad?
Absolutely! Chopped strawberries, bananas, or mandarin oranges can enhance the flavor and texture of the salad. Just be sure to drain any additional fruit well to prevent excess liquid from affecting the jello's ability to set. This makes it a great way to incorporate fresh fruit into your dessert.
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).