Mary Tobey'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant cranberry salad combining tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and a hint of orange, perfect for festive gatherings or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and crushed pineapple.
- Let the mixture set for 1 hour.
- Dissolve the red Jell-O in hot water.
- Allow the Jell-O to start to set, then add the cranberry mixture and nuts, if desired.
- Pour the mixture into an oblong dish and refrigerate until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter salad, consider increasing the sugar or adding a splash of maple syrup. You can substitute the red Jell-O with a fruit-flavored gelatin for a variation. If you prefer nuts, walnuts or pecans complement the cranberries nicely. For a twist, try adding diced apples or oranges to the mixture. Be sure to chop the cranberries finely to ensure an even texture throughout the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cranberry salad as a refreshing side dish at holiday gatherings or family dinners. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as part of a festive buffet. For a light dessert, consider topping it with whipped cream or yogurt. You can also serve it alongside dishes like Easy Tender Pepper Steak for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may change slightly as it sits, but it will still be delicious. Avoid freezing, as the gelatin may separate. If you need to refresh the salad before serving, gently stir it to redistribute the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Tobey'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 264 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g 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 frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before chopping. They may be slightly softer than fresh cranberries, so adjust the sugar to your taste as frozen berries can sometimes be sweeter.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad can be easily adapted for vegan recipes by ensuring that the Jell-O is plant-based, as some brands use gelatin derived from animals. Check for vegan gelatin options or use agar-agar as a substitute for a completely plant-based version.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
You can add diced kiwi, mandarin oranges, or even pomegranate seeds for a pop of color. Incorporating these fruits not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds different textures and flavors, making the salad even more delightful.
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).