Pitted Bing Cherry Salad
A vibrant cherry and pineapple salad with creamy, nutty, and fizzy flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or festive occasions, offering a unique twist on classic gelatin desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple and black Bing cherries; bring the juice to a boil and add the cherry and strawberry gelatin powders, stirring until dissolved.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped nuts, drained pineapple, drained cherries, and Coca-Cola, mixing well.
- Pour the gelatin mixture into a serving bowl and add the cream cheese mixture, stirring gently to combine.
- Chill the salad until it is firm, about 2-3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can use sugar-free gelatin and opt for unsweetened pineapple. Toasted almonds or walnuts can enhance the nut flavor. Ensure the cherries are well-drained to prevent excess liquid. This recipe is an excellent way to use leftover fruits from your summer gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This Pitted Bing Cherry Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side for summer barbecues. Serve it as a refreshing dessert or alongside a light lunch. It can also complement dishes like the Golden Ember Sauce(Barbecue Chicken) or be enjoyed as part of a potluck spread. Garnish with fresh mint for added color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin salad will continue to firm up, but it can lose some texture if frozen. If you need to serve it again, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften it slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pitted Bing Cherry Salad contains roughly 184 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% 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 cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh Bing cherries, but you'll need to pit and chop them. Fresh cherries may offer a firmer texture and brighter flavor, but ensure you adjust the sweetness of the gelatin and other ingredients accordingly.
Is there a way to make this salad vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it contains no meat products. However, ensure that the gelatin used is plant-based, such as agar-agar, if you want to cater to vegan preferences.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To add more color, consider mixing in diced strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi. These fruits will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a variety of flavors, making your salad more vibrant and inviting.
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).