Pineapple Nut Fruit Salad
A vibrant pineapple nut fruit salad with tangy gelatin, creamy dressing, and crunchy pecans, perfect for gatherings and adding a refreshing, sweet touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lemon and lime gelatin in hot water; cool.
- Chill until thickened.
- Combine salad dressing mixed with the evaporated milk.
- Fold the milk mixture into the thickened gelatin.
- Add crushed pineapple, cottage cheese, chopped pecans, and lemon juice.
- Mix gently until well combined.
- Pour into a 9 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the salad dressing, which adds creaminess without the extra calories. You can also use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a brighter flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing fruit salad as a light dessert or a sweet side dish at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Crispy Onion Rolls for a nice contrast. For added flair, garnish with fresh mint leaves or additional chopped pecans just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pineapple Nut Fruit Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may change slightly as the gelatin absorbs moisture, so serve chilled for the best experience. Avoid freezing, as the ingredients may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Nut Fruit Salad contains roughly 1149 calories, with 17g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1656mg per serving (72% 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, this Pineapple Nut Fruit Salad can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure it is well chilled before serving. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it a great make-ahead dish for parties.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and heavy cream in a 2:1 ratio. Almond milk or coconut milk can also work for a dairy-free option, though the texture may vary slightly.
How can I add more fruit to this salad?
Feel free to mix in additional fruits such as diced strawberries, mandarin oranges, or sliced bananas for extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture content to keep the salad from becoming too watery.
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).