Lemon Cranberry Salad
A refreshing and tangy lemon cranberry salad featuring bright citrus flavors, tart cranberries, and sweet raspberries, perfect for holiday gatherings or a light, fruity dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lemon jello in 3 cups of hot water.
- Thaw the red raspberries and add their juice to the jello mixture.
- Add the thawed berries and the can of whole cranberry sauce to the mixture.
- Mix well and chill until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the jello mixture. If you don't have frozen raspberries, fresh ones or even blueberries can work as a substitute. Make sure to dissolve the jello completely for a smooth texture. This salad can also be enhanced with chopped nuts for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Cranberry Salad makes a refreshing side dish for holiday meals or a light dessert. It pairs beautifully with Light Vegetable Soup or can be served alongside a spicy main dish to balance flavors. Consider garnishing with mint leaves for an extra touch of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad begins to lose its texture, gently stir before serving. This dish is best enjoyed chilled, so serve it straight from the fridge for optimal taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Cranberry Salad contains roughly 215 calories, with 2g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of jello if you want to alter the taste. However, keep in mind that the lemon flavor complements the tartness of the cranberries well. A raspberry or orange jello could also work, but the overall taste will change.
How can I make this salad vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly, as none of the ingredients contain animal products. Just ensure that the jello you use is free from gelatin, which is derived from animal products. Look for plant-based gelatin alternatives or fruit-based jello options.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it a perfect option for parties or gatherings. Just make sure to cover it well in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The flavors meld beautifully when it sits overnight.
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).