Quick Pimento Salad
A creamy, sweet and savory salad blending pimento cheese with crushed pineapple and whipped topping, perfect for quick gatherings and casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the crushed pineapple drain thoroughly.
- Combine the drained pineapple with pimento cheese and whipped topping in a bowl.
- Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for heat. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought pimento cheese or even try a different flavor of whipped topping. For a vegetarian option, ensure the pimento cheese is made without meat-based ingredients. This salad is best served fresh but can hold up well for a day or two in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pimento salad as a refreshing dip alongside crackers or fresh vegetables. It also makes a delightful filling for sandwiches, especially when paired with crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or as a side dish with grilled chicken or pork, making it a versatile addition to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may thicken as it sits, but you can revive it by gently folding in a bit more whipped topping before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Pimento Salad contains roughly 359 calories, with 15g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg per serving (23% 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 pimento salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, but be sure to add a little more whipped topping if it thickens too much.
What can I substitute for whipped topping?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt or homemade whipped cream as a substitute for the whipped topping. This will give you a similar creamy texture without the added sugars, while still keeping the dish light.
Is this pimento salad suitable for a picnic?
Absolutely! This pimento salad is great for picnics or potlucks due to its easy preparation and delicious flavor. Just be sure to keep it chilled in a cooler until serving to maintain freshness, especially if it's warm outside.
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).