Paralee Sargent'S Strawberry Salad
A refreshing and fruity strawberry salad featuring crushed pineapple, strawberry Jell-O, cottage cheese, and Cool Whip. This light dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or family dinners, offering a sweet-tangy flavor with creamy texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the crushed pineapple in a pan and bring it to a boil.
- Add the strawberry Jell-O to the boiling pineapple and stir until it thickens.
- Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Gently fold in the large cottage cheese.
- Add Cool Whip and mix until well combined.
- Refrigerate the salad until it is congealed and chilled before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese or substituting Greek yogurt for added creaminess. You can also experiment with sugar-free Jell-O for a healthier option. If you want to enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture. Always let the pineapple cool before adding the Jell-O to prevent curdling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this strawberry salad as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Fudge Topped Brownies for dessert or as part of a light brunch spread. Garnish with fresh strawberries for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can become watery as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cottage cheese will change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paralee Sargent'S Strawberry Salad contains roughly 82 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 strawberries instead of Jell-O?
While fresh strawberries can be used, they won't provide the same texture and flavor as the Jell-O. You could create a strawberry puree and mix it with gelatin to achieve a similar effect. However, the classic flavor comes from the Jell-O, so keep that in mind.
How long does this salad take to set?
The salad typically takes about 2-4 hours to fully congeal in the refrigerator, depending on the temperature of your fridge. To speed up the process, you can place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes, but don’t forget to check it frequently to avoid freezing.
Can I make this salad a day in advance?
Yes, making this salad a day in advance is a great idea! It allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just ensure it’s covered well in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.
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).