Reba'S Lime Salad

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

Reba's Lime Salad is a refreshing, tangy dish featuring lime gelatin, pineapple, cottage cheese, and nuts, perfect for light gatherings and those who enjoy a citrusy, creamy flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large box lime gelatin
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 6 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup pecans or walnuts, broken
  • 1 small can evaporated milk
  • 1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple, drained
  • 2 (8 oz.) cartons cottage cheese

Instructions

  1. Dissolve lime gelatin in hot water.
  2. Add lemon juice and stir well. Refrigerate until thickened.
  3. Beat the mixture until light and creamy.
  4. Add mayonnaise, drained pineapple, cottage cheese, and broken nuts; mix well.
  5. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the creaminess of Reba's Lime Salad, consider using full-fat mayonnaise and cream cheese instead of mayonnaise for a richer texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can substitute for mayonnaise. For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or walnuts and add sunflower seeds for crunch. Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess liquid.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Reba's Lime Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at picnics or potlucks, pairing beautifully with dishes like Spam Picnic Casserole or grilled meats. It can also be a delightful addition to a brunch spread. Garnish with additional nuts or a sprig of mint for an attractive presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may deepen as it sits, but the texture can become softer. Stir gently before serving. Avoid freezing, as the creamy components may separate upon thawing, compromising the salad's texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Reba'S Lime Salad contains roughly 1046 calories, with 15g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (53% of the Daily Value), calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 672mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).

1046 kcal 52% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 14.6g 29% DV
Total Fat 52.5g 67% DV
Carbs 133.8g 49% DV
Fiber 3.6g 13% DV
Sugar 67.7g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 672.2mg 29% DV
Potassium 664.7mg 14% DV
Cholesterol 12.8mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 277.6mcg 31% DV
Vitamin C 30.4mg 34% DV
Vitamin D 2.4mcg 12% DV
Calcium 646.1mg 50% DV
Iron 9.6mg 53% DV
Contains Milk Egg Tree nuts

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 another flavor of gelatin?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of gelatin to customize the salad. However, keep in mind that the taste and color will change. Lime or lemon flavors will provide a similar tangy profile, while berry flavors will add a fruity twist.

Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Reba's Lime Salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure that it's stored properly in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Yes, you can add other fruits like diced strawberries, mandarin oranges, or chopped apples for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the liquid content slightly to maintain the right consistency.

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).

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