Liz'S Congealed Salad
A colorful, refreshing congealed salad featuring fruit, pecans, and a creamy jello base, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings with a sweet and nutty flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the fruit cocktail and crushed pineapple.
- Heat the fruit juices until simmering and mix with the jello until fully dissolved.
- Mix the cream cheese with the prepared jello mixture and add the drained fruit and chopped pecans.
- Pour into a mold or dish and chill until set. If the fruit settles to the bottom, stir once after beginning to chill.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese. If you want to enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of lemon juice to the jello mixture. You can also substitute chopped walnuts for pecans or use different flavors of jello to match the fruits you have, making this a versatile recipe. For a tropical twist, try using coconut-flavored jello.
Serving Suggestions
Liz's Congealed Salad makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals or summer barbecues. Serve it alongside savory dishes like roasted chicken or grilled meats to balance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Coconut Ice Cream Pie for a refreshing dessert duo. Garnish with additional chopped pecans or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The salad is best enjoyed chilled, so there's no need to reheat it. If the salad separates slightly, simply give it a gentle stir before serving. It's perfect for picnics and potlucks, as it holds up well in the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Liz'S Congealed Salad contains roughly 451 calories, with 4g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium.
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?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit, but keep in mind that some fruits like bananas may not hold up well when mixed with jello. Make sure to cut the fruit into small pieces and stir them in just before pouring into the mold to maintain texture.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, the salad takes about 4-6 hours to set properly in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving. If you're short on time, you can place it in the freezer for 1-2 hours, but be sure to check it frequently to avoid freezing.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. However, always check the jello packaging as some brands may use gelatin derived from animal sources. Look for vegetarian or agar-agar based jello as an alternative.
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).