Pineapple Cheese Mold
A colorful, savory gelatin mold combining pineapple, cottage cheese, and crunchy nutmeats. Its tangy and creamy flavors make it a delightful appetizer or side dish, suitable for festive gatherings or casual meals seeking a unique textural contrast and vibrant presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lime Jell-O in hot water.
- Add Pet milk and mix until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
- Stir in chopped celery, a few drops of green food coloring, cottage cheese, crushed pineapple, salad dressing, and nutmeats.
- Pour the mixture into a bowl or mold and let it set.
- Once partially set, mix again to incorporate ingredients evenly before fully setting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the Jell-O is completely dissolved before adding the other ingredients. You can substitute Pet milk with regular milk or a non-dairy alternative if preferred. If you want to add crunch, consider using chopped pecans instead of nutmeats. Adjust the amount of celery based on your taste; a little more can enhance the flavor without overpowering it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pineapple Cheese Mold as a refreshing side dish at summer picnics or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a light appetizer. Consider serving it alongside a vibrant salad or as part of a buffet spread that includes dishes like Aunt Rose'S Cookie Sheet Pie for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for about 3-4 days. If the mold has set well, you can slice it for easy serving. Reheat by allowing it to sit at room temperature for a short while before serving, as it is typically enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Cheese Mold contains roughly 522 calories, with 9g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1476mg per serving (64% 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 a different flavor of Jell-O?
Absolutely! While lime Jell-O gives a unique flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like lemon or orange for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the taste and color will change, so choose a flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegetarian as it does not include any meat products. Ensure that the salad dressing you use is also vegetarian-friendly. You can opt for vegan cream cheese or dairy-free alternatives if you want to make it suitable for a vegan diet as well.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the Pineapple Cheese Mold a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and let it set completely in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
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).