Overnight Cherry Salad
A light, fruity salad combining cherries, pineapple, marshmallows, and coconut with a creamy sour cream dressing, perfect for summer gatherings or casual desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cherries, pineapple chunks, miniature marshmallows, flaked coconut, sliced almonds, and sour cream in a large bowl.
- Cover and chill overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh cherries. If cherries are out of season, frozen cherries can be substituted. You can also replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try using walnuts instead of sliced almonds. Adjust the sweetness by adding a touch of honey or maple syrup if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Overnight Cherry Salad makes a delightful side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can serve as a refreshing dessert. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent treat. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light salad or a savory dish like Broccoli Cauliflower Scallop.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The marshmallows may soften, but the flavors will meld beautifully. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the ingredients can change. To refresh the salad, give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Cherry Salad contains roughly 1172 calories, with 29g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (77% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 503mg per serving (22% 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 canned cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned cherries, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the salad. Fresh cherries will provide a better texture and flavor, but canned can work in a pinch. Adjust the sweetness accordingly, as canned cherries may contain added sugars.
How long can I store the salad?
The salad is best consumed within 2 days when stored in the refrigerator. The flavors develop overnight, but the texture of the marshmallows may change slightly. If you're making it for an event, prepare it the day before for optimal taste.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this salad dairy-free by substituting the sour cream with a non-dairy yogurt or coconut cream. This will maintain the creamy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions. Just ensure that the alternative you choose complements the flavors of the other 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).