Mema'S 24 Hour Salad
Mema's 24 Hour Salad is a creamy, fruit-filled dessert combining cherries, oranges, marshmallows, and whipped topping, offering a sweet, tangy flavor perfect for family gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine egg yolks, sugar, pineapple syrup, salt, vinegar, and butter in a saucepan.
- Cook on medium heat until thick, stirring constantly.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in Cool Whip, cherries, marshmallows, pineapple chunks, and mandarin oranges.
- Chill the salad for 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or using fresh pineapple instead of canned. If you don't have Cool Whip, whipped cream or a dairy-free whipped topping can be used as a substitute. For a bit of crunch, you could also fold in some finely chopped nuts. Ensure to stir the mixture gently to keep the texture light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled as a delightful side dish at potlucks or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like grilled chicken or a hearty casserole. For a festive touch, garnish with additional fruit or a sprinkle of shredded coconut. This salad makes a lovely addition to brunch spreads alongside items like Walnut - Raisin Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, enhancing the taste. Avoid freezing as the texture may change when thawed. If you choose to reheat, do so gently in a microwave, but it's best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mema'S 24 Hour Salad contains roughly 1032 calories, with 21g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 987mg per serving (43% 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 a different type of fruit in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add your favorite fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Just keep in mind that different fruits may alter the overall flavor and texture of the salad, so choose ones that complement the other ingredients.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the egg yolks with a plant-based egg replacer and use coconut cream instead of Cool Whip. You can also swap out the butter for a vegan alternative. This will maintain the creaminess while keeping the dish plant-based.
Is this salad suitable for special diets?
This salad contains eggs and dairy, making it unsuitable for strict vegan diets. However, it can be adapted for vegetarian recipes and can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients, especially the Cool Whip, are gluten-free certified. Always check labels for any allergens.
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).