Lo-Cal, Low Sugar Congealed Salad
A refreshing, low-sugar congealed salad featuring lime jello, pineapple, and creamy cheese, perfect for light gatherings or health-conscious desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lime jello in 1 cup hot water.
- Add the skimmed evaporated milk and room temperature cream cheese to the dissolved jello.
- Stir in the crushed pineapple, miniature marshmallows (if using), and chopped nuts.
- Pour into a mold or dish and chill several hours until congealed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting the lime jello with sugar-free strawberry or lemon jello. You can reduce the sweetness by omitting the miniature marshmallows or using a smaller amount. This low-calorie salad can also be enhanced with Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
This congealed salad is a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or serves as a light dessert. Consider serving it alongside a classic dish like Eastern Shore Corn Bread for a balanced meal. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the dish with plastic wrap if it's in a mold to prevent it from absorbing any odors. This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so there's no need to reheat it; simply serve cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal, Low Sugar Congealed Salad contains roughly 973 calories, with 16g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 627mg per serving (27% 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 regular jello instead of sugar-free?
Yes, you can use regular jello if you prefer. However, keep in mind that this will increase the sugar content significantly. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, sticking with sugar-free jello is recommended.
Is it necessary to include nuts in the recipe?
No, the nuts are optional and can be omitted if you have nut allergies or prefer a smoother texture. Alternatively, you can substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch without the nuts.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
The salad typically takes several hours to congeal properly, so it's best to prepare it the night before serving. This allows enough time for the ingredients to meld together and achieve the desired texture.
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).