Lucille'S Cherry Nut Salad
A refreshing cherry nut salad featuring cherry Jell-O, crushed pineapple, sour cherries, and chopped pecans, perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat cherries and pineapple juice to boiling.
- Add cherry Jell-O and sugar, stirring until dissolved.
- Add drained crushed pineapple and chopped pecans.
- Chill until the mixture is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this classic salad, consider substituting the cherry Jell-O with raspberry or strawberry for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can use sugar substitutes. Ensure the pecans are chopped finely for better texture. You can also toast the pecans for added flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Lucille's Cherry Nut Salad makes a delightful side dish for holiday dinners or summer barbecues. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like grilled meats or can be served as a light dessert. Consider serving it alongside Cathy'S Baked Apples for a fruity-themed meal. Garnish with a sprig of mint for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If the mixture becomes too soft after a few days, you can remix it gently before serving. This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so there's no need to reheat it; simply serve it straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lucille'S Cherry Nut Salad contains roughly 760 calories, with 10g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), protein (20% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. It also contributes 11g 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 use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but be sure to pit and slice them before adding to the salad. Fresh cherries will provide a firmer texture and a more vibrant flavor compared to canned. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness based on your taste preference since fresh cherries can be less sweet.
How long does this salad need to chill?
It's best to chill the salad for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the Jell-O to set properly, resulting in a firmer and better-textured salad. If you're short on time, aim for a minimum of 2 hours, but keep in mind that the taste improves with longer chilling.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, to make this salad vegan, use a plant-based gelatin alternative instead of cherry Jell-O, as traditional gelatin is animal-derived. Additionally, ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed using bone char. This way, you can enjoy a vegan-friendly version of this classic dish without sacrificing flavor.
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).