Mom'S Best Cranberry Salad
A vibrant, fruity cranberry salad with orange, apples, and pineapple, topped with raspberry gelatin and pecans—perfect as a refreshing side or festive dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the raspberry gelatin according to package directions and refrigerate until set.
- Garnish the set gelatin with whole pecans on top.
- In a separate bowl, mix ground cranberries, ground orange with peel, ground apples, sugar, finely chopped celery, drained crushed pineapple, and pecan pieces.
- Pour the mixture over the jelled raspberry gelatin and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter salad, consider reducing the sugar or substituting with honey or maple syrup. If you want a crunchier texture, add toasted walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. You can also use fresh pineapple if you prefer a more vibrant flavor. Ensure the gelatin is fully set before pouring the cranberry mixture for the best presentation and texture. This salad pairs wonderfully with Marinated Whole Green Beans for a vibrant holiday spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cranberry salad as a refreshing side at holiday meals or family gatherings. It pairs well with savory dishes like roasted turkey or ham. For a delightful dessert, add a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also serve it alongside Nutty Cherry Squares for a sweet ending to your meal. Consider garnishing with fresh mint for an extra pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be served cold straight from the fridge. If you notice any separation of the gelatin, give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as this may alter the texture of the ingredients, especially the gelatin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Best Cranberry Salad contains roughly 1209 calories, with 14g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 18g 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 other fruits in this salad?
Absolutely! This salad is versatile, and you can substitute in fruits like pears, grapes, or even pomegranate seeds for added color and flavor. Just ensure the fruits are finely chopped or ground to maintain the salad's texture.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated until serving. The flavors will meld nicely overnight, enhancing the taste. Just be cautious about the gelatin setting properly before adding the fruit mixture.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this salad vegan, you can replace the gelatin with agar-agar or another plant-based gelatin alternative. Ensure that all ingredients, including sugar, are vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy the salad while adhering to a vegan diet.
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).