Peppermint Salad
A refreshing peppermint salad featuring whipped cream, marshmallows, vanilla wafers, and crushed peppermint sticks, perfect for festive gatherings and sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the vanilla wafer crumbs in the bottom of a dish or pan, such as a 7 1/2 x 12-inch Tupperware container.
- Save some of the wafer crumbs to sprinkle on the top later.
- Whip the cream until stiff peaks form.
- Add the quartered marshmallows and ground peppermint sticks to the whipped cream and gently fold together.
- Spread the marshmallow and peppermint mixture over the wafer crumbs in the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining wafer crumbs on top of the salad.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using a low-fat whipping cream. If you can't find ground peppermint sticks, crush regular peppermint candies in a food processor. You can substitute marshmallows with mini marshmallows for easier mixing. To add a twist, incorporate crushed chocolate cookies or use crushed graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers. This salad also pairs beautifully with Pecan Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes) for a festive dessert table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Peppermint Salad chilled for a refreshing treat. It makes a delightful addition to holiday gatherings or potlucks. Pair it with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy dessert experience. For a festive touch, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of extra ground peppermint or add a fresh mint leaf. This dish complements savory options like Mushrooms, Peppers And Onions beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness, as the marshmallows may become soggy over time. Avoid freezing, as the whipped cream can change texture when thawed. If serving later, you may want to add fresh wafer crumbs before serving to maintain crunchiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppermint Salad contains roughly 2490 calories, with 29g protein, 411g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (108% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2213mg per serving (96% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it tightly and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together. However, for best texture, add the final layer of wafer crumbs right before serving to keep them crunchy.
Can I use other types of cream for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whipped topping or dairy-free alternatives if you want a non-dairy version. Just ensure that the substitute can hold its shape when whipped. Coconut cream is a great option for a unique flavor and can give a lovely tropical twist to the salad.
What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?
If you don't have vanilla wafers, you can substitute with crushed graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even chocolate cookies for a different flavor profile. Each option will provide a unique taste and texture while still complementing the peppermint and marshmallow mixture.
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).