Pineapple-Lime Salad
A refreshing and colorful pineapple-lime salad that combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple with the zesty flavor of lime jello. Light and creamy, it’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a cool dessert. The chopped walnuts and maraschino cherries add delightful texture and visual appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly.
- Heat the juice from the pineapple in a saucepan until it boils.
- Dissolve the lime jello in the hot pineapple juice.
- Allow the mixture to cool until it starts to thicken.
- Add the whipped cottage cheese, whipped cream or Cool Whip, maraschino cherries, and chopped walnuts to the cooled jello mixture.
- Mix well and pour into molds or a square pan.
- Chill in the refrigerator until the salad is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. You can also substitute the crushed pineapple with fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor. If you want to add some crunch, consider mixing in some toasted coconut. Ensure the pineapple juice is boiling before adding the jello to achieve the best consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This Pineapple-Lime Salad makes a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside other light salads, like 6-Cup Fruit Salad. Garnish each serving with additional maraschino cherries for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best served chilled and will maintain its texture without freezing. If you need to rehydrate the salad, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple-Lime Salad contains roughly 90 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 for a brighter taste. Just ensure it's finely chopped to mimic the texture of crushed pineapple. You’ll need to extract the juice from the fresh pineapple to dissolve the jello properly.
How long does this salad need to chill?
The salad typically requires at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to set properly. For best results, chill it overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container before refrigerating. This gives the flavors more time to develop.
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).