May Day Salad
A light, fruity salad featuring cottage cheese, orange jello, and citrus fruits, perfect for spring gatherings or refreshing summer desserts. Sweet, tangy, and creamy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whip cottage cheese and gelatin until smooth, following the instructions on the box for preparing the gelatin.
- Add drained mandarin orange slices and pineapple chunks to the mixture.
- Fold in Cool Whip until well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat cottage cheese and ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved before mixing. You can substitute mandarin oranges with fresh orange segments or use peach slices for a different flavor. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using low-fat Cool Whip or yogurt instead of regular Cool Whip. This May Day Salad pairs beautifully with Spiced Pumpkin Orange Tart for a festive meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing May Day Salad as a light dessert or a delightful side dish at gatherings. It's perfect for picnics or potlucks, and pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Consider complementing it with Fudgy Brownie Cupcakes for a sweet finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly watery over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Do not freeze, as the texture will change after thawing. Always serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of May Day Salad contains roughly 215 calories, with 6g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% 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 in advance?
Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just be sure to cover it well in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together. Just stir gently before serving to reintroduce the ingredients.
What can I substitute for Cool Whip?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use whipped Greek yogurt or homemade whipped cream. Just be aware that using yogurt will result in a tangier flavor. Ensure you fold it in gently to maintain the light texture of the salad.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this May Day Salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or fish products. Be sure to check the gelatin brand you use, as some gelatins are derived from animal products. Look for vegetarian gelatin alternatives if needed.
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).