Pie Cherry Salad
A refreshing and colorful cherry salad with citrus and pineapple flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or as a cool dessert for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the juice of cherries, sugar, and lemon jello in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Dissolve Knox gelatine in 1/4 cup water and add to the hot mixture.
- Add crushed pineapple with juice, grated orange and lemon rinds, salt, nuts, and cherries.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate until set.
- Serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the mixture. If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the sugar by half. You can substitute the crushed pineapple with diced fresh pineapple for a fresher taste. To make this dish vegan, replace the Knox gelatine with agar-agar. This recipe can also be enhanced with chopped walnuts for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Pie Cherry Salad is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. Consider serving it alongside a light meal, such as grilled chicken or a fresh garden salad. For a festive touch, garnish with mint leaves or serve it as a colorful side dish at picnics and potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change when thawed. To refresh the salad before serving, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly without losing its shape.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pie Cherry Salad contains roughly 45 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% 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 frozen cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the salad. This will ensure the texture remains consistent and doesn't water down the mixture.
Is there a way to make this salad less sugary?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of sugar to suit your taste. Additionally, using unsweetened crushed pineapple and eliminating the added sugar from the cherries can help balance the sweetness while still delivering great flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it a day in advance and allow it to set in the refrigerator overnight. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together.
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).