Pear Pecan Salad
A delightful and creamy fruit salad featuring pears, pecans, and a light Jell-O base, perfect for brunches, potlucks, or refreshing summer desserts that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned pears.
- Boil 1 1/2 cups of pear juice or a mixture of 1 cup juice and 1 cup ice cubes to help set the Jell-O faster.
- Mix the hot juice with the lime or lemon Jell-O until completely dissolved.
- Set the mixture in the refrigerator to thicken.
- Beat together the drained pears and cream cheese until smooth.
- Avoid including the pear fibers in the mixture, as they will gather on your beaters; discard the fibers.
- Add the pear and cream cheese mixture to the thickened Jell-O.
- Fold in the whipped nondairy cream and chopped pecans.
- Refrigerate the salad for a couple of hours or longer before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the nondairy whipped cream with Greek yogurt. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the pear mixture. To make this salad more festive, you can use green Jello, which adds a vibrant color and pairs beautifully with this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pear Pecan Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or dessert. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like roast chicken or a holiday ham. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a Christmas Breakfast Casserole or other brunch favorites. Garnish with additional chopped pecans for added crunch and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may lose some of its texture over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reheat, allow it to come to room temperature before serving, as the cream cheese and whipped cream may separate when chilled for long periods.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pear Pecan Salad contains roughly 316 calories, with 5g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 pears instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pears instead of canned. Just peel, core, and chop them into small pieces. You may need to adjust the sweetness, as canned pears are typically sweeter. To maintain the texture, make sure to mix them gently with the cream cheese and Jell-O.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare it according to the instructions and refrigerate. Allow it to set for several hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture. It makes a great option for potlucks or holiday gatherings.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians, especially if you use plant-based cream cheese and whipped cream. Always check labels to confirm that your ingredients do not contain any animal products. This delightful salad is not only vegetarian but also a crowd-pleaser for all types of guests.
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).