Martha Jean'S Strawberry Salad
A refreshing strawberry jello salad layered with crushed pineapple, bananas, and topped with sour cream, perfect for summer gatherings and fruit lovers seeking a cool, sweet treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the large box of strawberry jello in 1 cup of boiling water; let it cool.
- Add 1/2 cup of cold water or pineapple juice, crushed pineapple, mashed bananas, and thawed frozen strawberries to the cooled jello.
- Pour half of the mixture into a mold and let it set.
- Spread sour cream over the partially set jello.
- Pour the remaining strawberry mixture on top of the sour cream and chill for 4 or more hours until fully set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the crushed pineapple with diced peaches or mango for a unique flavor. If you're looking for a vegan option, ensure your jello is plant-based. To achieve a firmer texture, use less liquid when dissolving the jello. Make sure the fruit is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served as a light dessert. For an elegant touch, garnish with mint leaves or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also complements summer picnics as a delightful side dish. Consider serving it with a light dressing like Virginia Vincent'S French Dressing for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can last for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, serve it chilled directly from the fridge, as the flavors will meld even more over time. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become unappealing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha Jean'S Strawberry Salad contains roughly 99 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (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 use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries in place of frozen ones. Just slice them and add them to the mixture. Keep in mind that fresh strawberries may not provide the same texture as thawed frozen strawberries, but they will add a delightful freshness to the salad.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Follow the instructions and let it set overnight in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to develop further. Just remember to cover it properly to prevent any odors from affecting the taste.
Is there a way to reduce the sweetness of the salad?
If you find the salad too sweet, consider reducing the amount of jello used or adding more crushed pineapple to balance the sweetness. You can also mix in some unsweetened whipped cream before serving for a lighter taste.
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).