One Bowl Cherry Salad
A sweet and tart cherry salad with pecans, perfect for gatherings and potlucks, combining fruity flavors with crunchy nuts in a chilled, refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry Jell-O in boiling water.
- Add the cherry pie filling, undrained crushed pineapple, and pecan pieces.
- Mix well until everything is combined.
- Chill the salad, stirring once or twice before it fully sets.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding mini marshmallows or shredded coconut to the salad. If you prefer a lighter version, swap the cherry pie filling for fresh cherries or use a sugar-free Jell-O. Ensure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to create an even distribution of flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with Eva'S Cole Slaw for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cherry salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or dessert. It works well at potlucks and barbecues, complementing heartier dishes like grilled meats or Audrey Aul'S Homemade Bread. Garnish with whipped cream or fresh mint for added flair before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become a bit watery as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture will be affected once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Bowl Cherry Salad contains roughly 418 calories, with 6g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g 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 fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries for a healthier alternative. Simply pit and chop the cherries, then mix them with the Jell-O mixture. Keep in mind that fresh cherries may not provide the same sweetness as the pie filling, so you might want to add a bit of sugar to taste.
How long does this salad need to chill?
The salad should chill for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly. If you have time, letting it sit overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Be sure to stir it a couple of times during the chilling process to ensure an even texture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the ingredients.
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).