Marge'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant, sweet-tart cranberry salad featuring strawberries, pineapple, and gelatin, perfect for festive gatherings, potlucks, or as a refreshing holiday side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the strawberry jello in boiling water.
- Add the thawed strawberries, cranberry sauce, crushed pineapple, and their juices to the dissolved jello.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan and refrigerate until congealed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or a handful of chopped walnuts for crunch. If you prefer a lighter version, try using sugar-free jello. Be sure the strawberries are fully thawed to avoid excess water diluting the jello mixture. This dish can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry salad is a delightful side dish for holiday dinners or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like ham or turkey, and it can also complement salads or sandwiches. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh mint or serving alongside Very Tasty Fruit Salad for a colorful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the salad is well-covered to prevent it from absorbing other odors. It is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need for reheating; simply serve it chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marge'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 348 calories, with 4g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g 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 strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries, but you may want to slightly mash them to release their juices. This will help incorporate their flavor into the jello. Just ensure they are ripe for the best taste.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, simply choose a plant-based gelatin substitute, such as agar-agar or pectin, and ensure the jello mix is vegan-friendly. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious cranberry salad without animal products.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, the salad will take about 4 to 6 hours to fully congeal in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before or early in the day to ensure it is set and ready for your meal.
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).