Nanny Craig'S Russian Salad
Nanny Craig's Russian Salad is a creamy, fruity dish with a zesty lime jello base, perfect for gatherings and those who enjoy sweet and savory flavors combined.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix lime jello, hot water, cream cheese, and marshmallows over low heat until dissolved.
- Let the mixture cool.
- Add crushed pineapple, Carnation milk, diced bananas, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and nuts to the cooled mixture.
- Congeal in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. You can substitute the lime jello with any other flavor if desired, such as lemon or orange for a different twist. Adjust the nuts according to your preference; walnuts or pecans work well in this recipe. This dish is great for potlucks, so keep it in mind when preparing meals like Summer Hacienda Dip.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. Serve it chilled on a bed of lettuce for an attractive presentation. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or a light green salad. It also complements dishes like Pumphrey Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may lose some of its texture after a day, but the flavors will still be delightful. Avoid freezing, as it can change the consistency of the ingredients like cream cheese and fruit.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nanny Craig'S Russian Salad contains roughly 356 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just prepare it up to the point of refrigeration, allowing it to congeal overnight. This will enhance the flavors and make it convenient for gatherings.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned pineapple?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used for a fresher taste. Just be sure to drain any excess juice to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. Fresh fruit can really elevate the dish.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly. All of the ingredients, including the cream cheese and marshmallows, are typically vegetarian. However, always check the packaging to ensure there are no animal-derived additives.
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).