Orange-Pineapple-Cheese Delight
A creamy, fruity salad with orange, pineapple, and cheese flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, offering a sweet and savory taste combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put drained pineapple, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Bring to a boil and stir in the orange jello until dissolved.
- Remove from heat.
- Add the reserved pineapple juice and orange juice mixture.
- Chill until it starts to gel.
- Fold in cottage cheese, diced celery, whipped topping, mayonnaise, and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Pour into a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex pan.
- Chill until set.
- Cut into squares and serve on a lettuce leaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat cottage cheese or a mix of cottage cheese and cream cheese. You can substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste. If you're looking for a lower-sugar version, use a sugar substitute designed for baking. This recipe can also be adapted to include other fruits like diced apples or mandarin oranges for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful dish on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing presentation. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or as a side to grilled meats. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside other summer favorites like Smothered Vegetable Cheese Omelette, creating a colorful and varied spread that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the dessert fresh, avoid cutting it into squares until ready to serve. If you need to reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, but this dish is best served chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange-Pineapple-Cheese Delight contains roughly 1098 calories, with 21g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1034mg per serving (45% 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh pineapple! Just ensure that it is finely chopped and drained well to avoid excess moisture. The flavor will be vibrant, and the texture will remain delightful in this dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use a vegan whipped topping and a dairy-free cheese option. Ensure that the jello is also vegan, as some brands use gelatin derived from animal products.
What can I do if my mixture doesn't set properly?
If the mixture doesn't set, it may be due to insufficient chilling time. Make sure to chill it for several hours. If it still seems too runny, consider adding a bit more jello powder, dissolving it in hot water, and folding it into the mixture before chilling again.
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).