Orange Pimento Salad
A colorful and refreshing salad combining orange jello, pineapple, marshmallows, and pimento cheese spread, perfect for entertaining or a delightful summer treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add boiling water to the orange jello and stir until dissolved.
- Cool the mixture until syrupy.
- Add crushed pineapple and small marshmallows to the jello mixture.
- Whip the whipping cream until stiff and fold in the pimento cheese spread until smooth.
- Combine the whipped cream mixture with the cooled jello mixture.
- Pour the entire mixture into a mold greased with mayonnaise and refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the pimento cheese spread is at room temperature before folding it into the whipped cream. You can substitute crushed pineapple with diced fresh pineapple for a fresher taste, and if you want to reduce sweetness, consider using a sugar-free version of orange jello. This dish is perfect for potlucks or as a side for American recipes such as Swiss Ham Bake.
Serving Suggestions
This Orange Pimento Salad makes a vibrant addition to a summer picnic or barbecue. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. It pairs beautifully with Junk Yard Salad for a colorful side dish selection. Garnish with extra chopped nuts for added crunch or serve in individual cups for a fun presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the salad has set in a mold, gently run a knife around the edges before inverting it onto a plate. This dish is best served cold, so avoid reheating; instead, enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Pimento Salad contains roughly 1593 calories, with 40g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 127g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (148% of the Daily Value), calcium (80% of the Daily Value), and protein (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1397mg per serving (61% 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 a different flavor of jello?
Yes, you can experiment with different jello flavors to suit your taste preferences. However, keep in mind that flavors like lemon or peach might alter the overall taste profile of the salad. Stick to fruity flavors for the best results.
What can I use instead of pimento cheese?
If you don't have pimento cheese, you can create a similar flavor by mixing cream cheese with diced roasted red peppers and spices. This alternative will maintain the creamy texture while providing a delicious flavor contrast to the sweet jello.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this salad healthier, consider using low-fat versions of the jello and cream. You can also reduce the amount of marshmallows or replace them with fresh fruit like mandarin oranges for added nutrition and flavor.
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).