Lime Cream Jello Salad

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A creamy, tangy lime jello salad with marshmallows, pineapple, cottage cheese, and nuts, topped with Cool Whip—perfect for potlucks and family gatherings with fresh, fruity flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small package lime jello
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 18 marshmallows
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 small can crushed pineapple with juice
  • 1 cup chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. In a double boiler, dissolve the lime jello in 1 cup of hot water.
  2. Add the marshmallows to the jello mixture and stir until dissolved.
  3. Allow the mixture to cool slightly and set aside.
  4. Mix the cottage cheese, crushed pineapple with juice, and chopped nuts in a bowl.
  5. Combine the cooled jello mixture with the cottage cheese mixture.
  6. Refrigerate until the salad thickens.
  7. Fold in one tub of Cool Whip.
  8. Serve chilled.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese. If you're not a fan of nuts, sunflower seeds can be a great substitute. To add a citrusy hint, a teaspoon of lime zest can enhance the flavor. Make sure to stir the marshmallows thoroughly to ensure they dissolve completely, as this is essential for a smooth consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This Lime Cream Jello Salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. To elevate your presentation, serve it in individual cups topped with extra Cool Whip and a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Consider serving alongside American recipes like Sweet Corn With Peppers for a colorful spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may thicken more as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change and become watery upon thawing. Serve chilled for the best flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lime Cream Jello Salad contains roughly 1232 calories, with 21g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), potassium (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.

1232 kcal 62% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 21.2g 42% DV
Total Fat 69.6g 89% DV
Carbs 141g 51% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 5.3g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 162mg 7% DV
Potassium 1689.7mg 36% DV
Cholesterol 5.1mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 80.7mcg 9% DV
Vitamin C 4.7mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 2% DV
Calcium 170.5mg 13% DV
Iron 4.7mg 26% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk

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 make this salad a day in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Just prepare it and refrigerate so it has enough time to set properly. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier. Just remember to fold in the Cool Whip shortly before serving to maintain its light texture.

What can I use if I don’t have lime jello?

If lime jello isn't available, you can substitute it with lemon jello for a slightly different flavor profile. Alternatively, using unflavored gelatin mixed with lime juice and sugar can also yield a similar taste. Adjust the sweetness to your preference while ensuring the gelatin sets properly.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Absolutely! You can enhance the salad by adding fruits like diced strawberries, mandarin oranges, or even blueberries. Just make sure to drain any excess juice to maintain the desired consistency. These additions not only add flavor but also create a vibrant and colorful dish.

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).

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