Megan'S Jello

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A vibrant, citrus-flavored Jell-O dessert with mandarin oranges, perfect for a refreshing treat at parties or family gatherings, offering a balance of sweetness and tang.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large pkg. orange Jell-O
  • 2 c. boiling water
  • 2 c. cold water
  • 2 (11 oz.) cans mandarin oranges

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the orange Jell-O in boiling water.
  2. Add cold water to the mixture.
  3. Wait until the Jell-O starts to thicken.
  4. Drain the mandarin oranges and add them to the Jell-O.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother consistency, make sure the Jell-O is fully dissolved in the boiling water before adding the cold water. If you want to add a twist, consider substituting the mandarin oranges with diced fresh pineapple for a tropical flair. This recipe can also be made using sugar-free Jell-O for a lighter version. Pairing it with a side of Beans And Greens Vegetable Soup can balance the sweetness nicely.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this refreshing Jell-O in individual cups or a large bowl for a fun dessert at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Easy Cranberry Sauce for a festive touch. Consider garnishing with whipped cream or fresh mint leaves for added flair. This dish is perfect for potlucks or summer barbecues.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If the Jell-O has set too firmly, you can gently reheat it in a microwave for a few seconds to soften it slightly, but be careful not to melt it completely. Always keep it chilled until serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Megan'S Jello contains roughly 246 calories, with 7g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

246 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.7g 13% DV
Total Fat 2.7g 3% DV
Carbs 52.2g 19% DV
Fiber 7.1g 25% DV
Sugar 18.9g 38% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 95.5mg 4% DV
Potassium 297.7mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 50.4mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 23.8mg 26% DV
Calcium 143.9mg 11% DV
Iron 2.4mg 13% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 oranges instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh oranges. Just make sure to peel and segment them before adding to the Jell-O. Keep in mind that fresh oranges may release some juice, which could alter the final texture slightly, so drain them well.

How long does it take for the Jell-O to set?

Typically, Jell-O takes about 4 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it a day in advance, allowing it to chill overnight. This gives the mandarin oranges time to infuse their flavor into the Jell-O as well.

Can I add other fruits to the Jell-O?

Absolutely! You can mix in other fruits like sliced strawberries, kiwi, or even blueberries. Just be cautious with fruits that are very juicy, as they can make the Jell-O too watery. Experiment with combinations for a colorful and flavorful dessert.

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).

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