Paul'S Fruit Salad
A creamy, fruity salad combining cottage cheese, fruit cocktail, pineapple, and mandarin oranges, topped with flavored gelatin. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or light dessert options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except the gelatin.
- Sprinkle gelatin over the mixture; stir to combine.
- Chill for several hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese. You can also substitute fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, for the canned options, adjusting the sweetness as needed. If you prefer a lighter version, try using whipped coconut cream in place of Cool Whip. Ensure the gelatin is evenly dispersed by sprinkling it gradually while stirring.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fruit salad chilled as a refreshing dessert or side dish at picnics and gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Yogurt Waffles for a delightful brunch option. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top for extra crunch or serving alongside Dottie'S Almond Bark Candy for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change. If the salad seems too thick after chilling, stir in a bit of juice or water to loosen it before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paul'S Fruit Salad contains roughly 381 calories, with 25g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 679mg per serving (30% 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 fruit instead of canned?
Yes, fresh fruit can be used in place of canned fruit. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness as needed. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi would add a nice touch. Keep in mind that fresh fruit may not hold up as well in terms of texture, so mix gently.
How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
The fruit salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. After that, the texture and flavor may start to decline. Make sure it's in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If it appears watery, give it a gentle stir before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this fruit salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or fish products. However, always check the gelatin source if you are serving strict vegetarians, as some gelatins are derived from animal sources. For a vegetarian alternative, look for plant-based gelatin.
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).