Maria'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant, tangy cranberry salad with oranges, celery, and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or a refreshing, fruity side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using a food processor, chop cranberries and oranges.
- Dissolve sugar and Jell-O with hot water in a bowl.
- Add ice cubes to the mixture and stir to thicken.
- Add chopped cranberries, oranges, celery, and nuts to the mixture.
- Stir well and chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this salad, consider using a mix of nuts like walnuts or pecans instead of just one type. If you prefer a sweeter salad, you can increase the sugar slightly. Make sure to chop the oranges finely to balance the tartness of the cranberries. If you want a vegan version, substitute the Jell-O with a plant-based gelatin alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cranberry Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at holiday gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like roasted turkey or ham. For a delightful brunch, consider serving it alongside other dishes like Garlic Potatoes Baked In Foil or fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad's texture may change slightly as it sits, but it will still be tasty. If you wish to serve it again, give it a gentle stir before enjoying, as the ingredients may settle.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maria'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 803 calories, with 6g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 554mg per serving (24% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste. However, it's best to add the nuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.
What can I substitute for the Jell-O?
If you prefer not to use Jell-O, you can replace it with agar-agar or another gelatin alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, so you might want to adjust the sugar and sweetness accordingly. Additionally, some fruit purees can be used for color and flavor.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To add more color to your salad, consider incorporating diced apples or pears. You can also use a variety of nuts and different colored fruits like blueberries or raspberries. These additions will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful mix of flavors.
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).