Pineapple-Pecan Salad
A creamy, sweet pineapple and pecan salad with a hint of orange flavor, perfect for a light dessert or festive dish enjoyed by families and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese.
- Blend in the orange-flavored gelatin, creaming and mixing thoroughly.
- Continuously stir and add hot water.
- Cool the mixture for 5 minutes.
- Add the undrained can of crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and quartered maraschino cherries.
- Pour the mixture into a wax paper-lined flat pan.
- Chill until set and then cut into squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute the orange-flavored gelatin with lemon or pineapple-flavored gelatin for a different twist. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese. Chopped walnuts can also replace pecans for a different nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a delightful addition to any potluck or picnic and pairs beautifully with dishes like grilled chicken or ham. Serve it as a refreshing side alongside a light salad or as a sweet treat after a hearty meal. For a creative twist, try it as a topping for the Crunchy Crust Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pineapple-Pecan Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If it becomes too firm after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving again. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple-Pecan Salad contains roughly 378 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chill the salad for at least 4 hours or until it is fully set. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up, making it easier to cut into squares. If you're short on time, aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight chilling is best for optimal flavor.
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).