Mom'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant and tangy cranberry salad with fresh carrots and celery, balanced by citrus jello and pineapple, perfect for holiday gatherings or refreshing side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil 1 cup of water with cranberry sauce in a pan, then pour into the lemon jello.
- Cut up the carrots and celery, then mix with crushed pineapple.
- Pour the hot cranberry mixture into the cut-up ingredients and stir.
- Add another cup of cold water and stir until well mixed.
- Chill until the salad is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the cranberry sauce with the boiling water before mixing with the jello. You can substitute the lemon jello with lime or orange for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a healthier version, consider using fresh cranberries instead of canned sauce and reducing the sugar to your liking. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to fit vegan recipes by using plant-based gel alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry salad makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals or summer picnics, pairing beautifully with dishes like turkey or ham. Consider serving it alongside other favorites such as Tuna Health Salad or Lo-Cal Company Salad for a refreshing meal. Garnish with fresh mint or nuts for an added touch of flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To serve again, simply scoop out portions and enjoy cold; there's no need to reheat as the salad is best served chilled. If the salad has become too firm, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 386 calories, with 6g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (231% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and potassium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% 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 fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries! Simply cook them down with sugar and water until softened, then blend to create a sauce. This will provide a fresher taste and can be adjusted for sweetness according to your preference.
How long does this salad need to chill?
The salad should chill for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly. For best results, prepare it a day in advance so the flavors can meld, and serve it chilled for a refreshing dessert or side.
What can I add to make this salad more nutritious?
You can enhance the nutrition by adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for healthy fats and crunch. Adding seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds can also boost the protein content and provide a satisfying texture.
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).