Pineapple-Lemon Salad
A creamy, tangy pineapple-lemon salad with crunchy pecans and celery, perfect for light desserts, potlucks, or summer gatherings, offering a refreshing citrus flavor with added texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple and reserve the juice.
- Heat the reserved pineapple juice until warm.
- Add the dry lemon Jell-O to the warm juice and remove from heat, stirring until dissolved.
- Add the cream cheese and crushed pineapple to the Jell-O mixture and stir until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped pimento, chopped celery, and chopped pecans.
- Gently fold in the small container of Cool Whip until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or serving dish and chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a fruity twist, consider adding chopped strawberries or mandarin oranges. For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds. This salad also works well with a different gelatin flavor if lemon isn't your favorite.
Serving Suggestions
This Pineapple-Lemon Salad is a delightful addition to summer barbecues or potlucks. Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or pair it with other light salads like Heavenly Fruit Salad Dressing. It also makes a lovely dessert option that complements dishes such as Pineapple Or Applesauce Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad has been set in a mold, it can be left in the mold until you're ready to serve it. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become grainy upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple-Lemon Salad contains roughly 151 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1005mg per serving (44% 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 pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely chop it to mimic the texture of crushed pineapple. Keep in mind that fresh pineapple may alter the overall sweetness, so adjust the amount of sugar or Jell-O if necessary.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan whipped topping. Additionally, ensure that the Jell-O is made with plant-based ingredients, as some brands may contain gelatin derived from animals.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, the salad takes about 4-6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before you plan to serve it, allowing ample time for the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
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).