Mary'S Strawberry Buttermilk Salad
A refreshing strawberry buttermilk salad with crushed pineapple and nuts, perfect as a light dessert or side dish for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the Jell-O and crushed pineapple in a saucepan until the Jell-O dissolves.
- Set the mixture aside to cool.
- Once cooled, add the chopped nuts, buttermilk, and topping or Cool Whip.
- Pour the mixture into a large glass salad bowl.
- Chill until the salad is set.
- For a smaller amount, halve the ingredients, use a small can of crushed pineapple, and add 1/4 cup water.
- This salad can be served as a dessert or side dish, and other flavors of Jell-O may be used.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat Cool Whip or a homemade whipped cream. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can substitute the nuts with sunflower seeds for added crunch. Additionally, using sugar-free Jell-O can help reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. You can also experiment with different fruit flavors, like raspberry or orange, to customize the taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served as a light dessert or a refreshing side dish at picnics or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with other dishes like Corn Flake Wreaths or New Potatoes In Dill Cream Sauce for a balanced meal. Garnish with fresh strawberries or mint leaves for an elegant touch, and consider serving it in individual cups for a charming presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best to avoid freezing this salad, as the texture may change when thawed. When ready to serve again, you don't need to reheat; simply allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Strawberry Buttermilk Salad contains roughly 563 calories, with 6g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and potassium (11% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh strawberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can add fresh strawberries for added flavor and texture. Just slice them and mix them in with the other ingredients before chilling. This will enhance the salad's freshness and provide a nice contrast to the Jell-O.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond or soy milk mixed with a splash of vinegar to mimic the tanginess. Use a vegan whipped topping instead of Cool Whip to complete the recipe.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, this salad takes about 4-6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, it's recommended to prepare it the night before serving, allowing plenty of time for the flavors to meld and the consistency to firm up.
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).