Lite Delight Jello Salad
A light, fruity Jello salad with pineapple and pecans, perfect for a refreshing dessert or side dish, especially suited for those seeking a low-sugar option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the sugar-free lime Jell-O in boiling water.
- Drain the pineapple into a cup and add enough water to make 1/2 cup liquid; add this to the Jell-O.
- While the Jell-O is hot, mash the cream cheese into it.
- Add the crushed pineapple and chopped pecans to the mixture.
- Refrigerate until the salad is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mashing it into the warm Jell-O. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting the lime Jell-O with sugar-free lemon or orange varieties. For added sweetness, you could fold in a small amount of honey or agave syrup, keeping in mind it will increase the sugar content.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing salad as a light dessert or side dish at your next gathering. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile addition to summer meals. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Mona'S Congealed Salad for a colorful and festive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The salad will continue to firm up as it chills. If you need to serve it again, there's no need to reheat; simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier scooping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lite Delight Jello Salad contains roughly 702 calories, with 12g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. It also contributes 8g 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made up to two days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure it is tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream or a store-bought vegan cream cheese. This will give you a similar creamy texture without the dairy.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or shredded coconut. Both options will add a delightful crunch to the salad while keeping it nut-free.
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).