Leona'S Congealed Salad(Ann Maloy'S)
A refreshing and sweet layered salad combining cherries, pineapple, coconut, and marshmallows, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or holiday gatherings with a creamy, fruity flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cherry pie filling, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, drained crushed pineapple, miniature marshmallows, and Eagle Brand milk thoroughly.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator.
- Serve well chilled, ideally the night before for best flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of this congealed salad, consider adding a splash of almond extract or a handful of diced maraschino cherries. If you're looking for a coconut alternative, unsweetened shredded coconut can add a different texture. For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds. This dish can also be made ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings or parties.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this congealed salad as a refreshing side dish or dessert at picnics and potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a brunch spread, especially alongside dishes like Special Spuds. For a festive touch, garnish with additional shredded coconut or fresh fruit on top just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some texture over time but will still taste delicious. Avoid freezing, as the ingredients may separate and become watery upon thawing. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again to refresh its consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leona'S Congealed Salad(Ann Maloy'S) contains roughly 1555 calories, with 22g protein, 203g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (136% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value), and calcium (63% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 872mg per serving (38% 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?
While canned fruit provides a consistent flavor and texture, you can definitely use fresh fruit. Just ensure that any fresh pineapple is well-drained and diced into small pieces to maintain the salad's consistency. Keep in mind that fresh fruit may alter the overall sweetness of the dish, so adjust accordingly.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
For the best flavor and texture, chill the salad for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. If you're in a hurry, a minimum of 30 minutes in the freezer can provide a quick chill, but it's best enjoyed well-set and cold from the refrigerator.
Can I make this salad a day in advance?
Yes, making this salad a day ahead is highly recommended! It allows the flavors to develop and the ingredients to set properly. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator.
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).