Lemon Lime Nut Salad
A refreshing, sweet and tangy salad featuring citrus-flavored Jell-O, cottage cheese, pineapple, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for parties or light desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine lime and lemon Jell-O powders in a bowl and add boiling water, then mix thoroughly.
- Add cottage cheese, crushed pineapple with juice, evaporated milk, and crushed walnuts to the Jell-O mixture.
- Gently fold in Cool Whip until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese and evaporated milk. If walnuts aren't available, pecans or almonds can be good substitutes. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of fresh lime or lemon juice to the Jell-O mixture. This salad can also be made with different flavored Jell-O for variety, such as orange or raspberry.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for summer gatherings or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with main courses like grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, serve alongside Joan's Pound Cake for dessert or with a fresh fruit platter. Guests will love the combination of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture may change slightly, but it will still be delicious. Avoid freezing, as the cottage cheese can separate once thawed. For best results, serve chilled directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Lime Nut Salad contains roughly 418 calories, with 13g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. It also contributes 3g 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to chop it finely and include the juice to maintain the right consistency. However, canned pineapple is recommended for its sweetness and moisture, which blends well with the other ingredients.
Can this salad be made in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day ahead of time. Just ensure it is tightly covered so it retains its freshness. Making it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when served.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. However, always check the specific brands of Jell-O and evaporated milk you use, as some may contain gelatin derived from animal sources. Opt for vegetarian alternatives if needed.
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).