Mom'S Cranberry-Cheese Salad
A refreshing cranberry-cheese salad featuring fruity relish and creamy cheese, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, combining sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, dissolve the unflavored gelatin in 1/4 cup of cold water.
- Heat the gelatin mixture until it is dissolved, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Dissolve the strawberry jello in 3/4 cup boiling water.
- Stir in the cranberry/orange relish and 2 tablespoons of reconstituted lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly oiled 1 1/2-quart mold.
- Chill until the gelatin is slightly thickened, about 2-3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure that the gelatin is fully dissolved before mixing with the jello. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the strawberry jello with raspberry or cherry jello. Additionally, consider adding chopped nuts or mini marshmallows for added texture. This dish can also be made ahead of time, making it a great option for gatherings alongside other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cranberry-cheese salad chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for added flair. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Seralla's Pink Salad for a colorful holiday spread. This dish makes an excellent side for turkey or ham, especially during festive occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can typically last for up to 3 days. If the gelatin becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as this will alter the texture of the salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Cranberry-Cheese Salad contains roughly 118 calories, with 3g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 7g 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 cranberries instead of cranberry orange relish?
Using fresh cranberries is possible, but you'll need to cook them down with sugar and orange juice to achieve a similar flavor and consistency as cranberry orange relish. This may take some additional time, but the result will be flavorful and fresh.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chill the salad for at least 2-3 hours to allow the gelatin to set properly. If possible, prepare it the night before to ensure it's fully firm and ready to serve the next day. This extra chilling time enhances the flavors and texture.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use agar-agar instead of gelatin. This will provide a similar texture without animal products. Be sure to check that your jello is also vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain gelatin.
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).