Port Wine Molded Salad
A refreshing and elegant molded salad featuring sweet pears, tangy raspberry jello, and rich port wine, perfect for festive occasions or sophisticated desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned pear halves and save the pear juice liquid.
- Measure the pear juice and add water to make 1 1/2 cups of liquid.
- Heat the liquid until hot.
- Add the raspberry jello and stir until completely melted.
- Add the remaining ingredients, except the pears, and stir well.
- When the mixture is slightly thickened, fold in the diced pears.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or pan and chill until set.
- To serve, unmold if desired and cut into squares, yielding 12 or more servings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, opt for a high-quality Port wine. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic version, consider using grape juice or cranberry juice instead. When preparing the jello, ensure the liquid is hot enough to fully dissolve the granules. You can also experiment by adding fresh mint or lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Port Wine Molded Salad pairs beautifully with a light cheese platter or a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also makes for a delightful dessert after a hearty meal, complementing dishes like Eye Of Round With Dill.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. If the salad has set too firmly, you can gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Port Wine Molded Salad contains roughly 79 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned pears?
Yes, fresh pears can be used if they're ripe and diced. Just make sure to adjust the liquid measurements slightly as fresh pears won't have the same juice content as canned ones. This will maintain the consistency of the salad.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this Port Wine Molded Salad vegan, simply use a vegan-friendly gelatin alternative like agar-agar instead of traditional gelatin. Ensure your Port wine is vegan as well, as some wines are processed with animal-derived fining agents.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Generally, the salad will take about 4 to 6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a firmer texture.
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).