No Water Jello Salad

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A creamy, fruity jello salad perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, combining cottage cheese, fruit, and Cool Whip with a hint of jello flavor for a refreshing treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large Cool Whip
  • 1 carton small curd cottage cheese
  • 1 large can fruit cocktail, drained
  • 1 large can crushed pineapple, drained

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
  2. Sprinkle a small package of jello over the mixture and stir until well combined.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. You can also substitute the cottage cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor. If you prefer a different fruit mix, feel free to use any canned fruit like peaches or pears. This dish can also be customized with a small amount of shredded coconut for added texture. Make sure the fruit is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this refreshing salad chilled, as a side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a light dessert after a heavy meal. Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of nuts for added flavor and crunch. It also complements nicely with American recipes like BBQ ribs or grilled chicken.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The jello salad can soften over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you notice it becoming watery, simply give it a good stir before serving. Avoid freezing as it can alter the texture of the ingredients.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of No Water Jello Salad contains roughly 247 calories, with 5g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

247 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5g 10% DV
Total Fat 20.1g 26% DV
Carbs 15.3g 6% DV
Fiber 3g 11% DV
Sugar 6.4g 13% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 203.5mg 9% DV
Potassium 186.8mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 5.4mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 21.6mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 2.6mg 3% DV
Calcium 107.1mg 8% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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 sugar-free jello for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use sugar-free jello as a substitute. It will still provide the same flavor and color without added sugar. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, so adjust the amount based on your preference.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this salad vegan, substitute the Cool Whip with a vegan whipped topping and use dairy-free yogurt instead of cottage cheese. You can also use a plant-based fruit cocktail and pineapple. Ensure that the jello you choose is vegan-friendly, as traditional jello contains gelatin.

What fruits work best in this salad?

While the recipe calls for fruit cocktail and crushed pineapple, you can experiment with other fruits like mandarin oranges, strawberries, or blueberries. Just make sure to drain them well to prevent excess liquid in the salad. This adds variety and can tailor the salad to seasonal fruits.

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).

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