Orange-Cranberry Relish Salad
A vibrant and sweet-tart salad combining cranberry, orange, pineapple, and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions that enjoy bold, fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the jello in hot water and fruit juice.
- Add the crushed pineapple, cranberry sauce, mandarin oranges, and sugar to the dissolved jello.
- Mix well and pour into a mold or serving dish.
- Refrigerate until set, about 2-4 hours.
- Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts before serving if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a brighter flavor, consider substituting the mandarin oranges with fresh orange segments. If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth. To enhance texture, try adding chopped apples or celery. This recipe can be customized similarly to Delphia Runyon's 7-Up Salad by including additional fruits.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant Orange-Cranberry Relish Salad is best served cold as a refreshing side dish during holiday gatherings or potlucks. It pairs well with savory dishes like roasted turkey or baked ham, adding a sweet and tangy contrast. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or additional nuts before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve over time. Avoid freezing as the texture can change significantly. To serve chilled, simply take it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange-Cranberry Relish Salad contains roughly 202 calories, with 2g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
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, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare it as directed and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to develop further, making it even tastier. Be sure to add the nuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.
What can I use instead of jello?
If you're looking for a gelatin-free option, you can use agar-agar to create a similar texture. Simply follow the package instructions to dissolve it in boiling water and mix with the fruit juice. This is a great option for those following vegan recipes.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but they need to be cooked down with sugar and water to create a sauce. Cook about 2 cups of fresh cranberries with 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water until the berries burst and the mixture thickens. Allow it to cool before adding it to the salad.
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).