Low Calorie Salad
A light and fruity low-calorie salad that combines creamy cottage cheese and Cool Whip with refreshing pineapple and mandarin oranges, all infused with a hint of orange jello. Perfect for a healthy dessert or side dish, it appeals to those seeking a sweet treat with fewer calories.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the lite Cool Whip and lite cottage cheese together.
- Sprinkle the sugar-free orange jello over the mixture and stir well.
- Combine the drained crushed pineapple with the drained mandarin oranges.
- Add half a box of pudding to the fruit mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Fold the fruit mixture into the Cool Whip and cottage cheese mixture.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, substitute the lite cottage cheese with Greek yogurt. If you prefer a different fruit, feel free to swap out the mandarin oranges for fresh berries or peaches. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract. Make sure to mix the jello evenly to avoid clumps in the salad. This dish is great for gatherings and can be served as a refreshing dessert or side.
Serving Suggestions
This low calorie salad can be served as a light dessert or a side dish at barbecues and parties. It pairs beautifully with Southern Fried Corn for a satisfying meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture. This dish is also perfect for summer picnics or potlucks, providing a refreshing option for guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may change slightly, but it will still be delicious. Avoid freezing as the Cool Whip may separate when thawed. When ready to serve again, give it a gentle stir to reincorporate any separated ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low Calorie Salad contains roughly 698 calories, with 4g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
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! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. Giving it a good stir before serving will help revive its texture.
Is there a way to make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the lite Cool Whip and cottage cheese with non-dairy alternatives like coconut whipped cream and almond or soy-based yogurt. Just ensure that the jello you use is also dairy-free, as some brands may contain milk ingredients.
What other fruits can I add to this salad?
You can customize this salad with a variety of fruits such as chopped strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi. Feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits to enhance the flavor and visual appeal. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness if necessary.
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).