Red And White Jello Salad
A vibrant, sweet and creamy layered gelatin salad featuring tangy lemon and cherry flavors, perfect for festive gatherings or summer desserts, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, dissolve the lemon jello in 1/2 cup of boiling water.
- Allow the jello to cool slightly.
- Have the cream cheese at room temperature or softened in the microwave.
- Add the softened cream cheese and the marshmallows to the jello mixture.
- Stir over low heat until the cream cheese and marshmallows are completely dissolved.
- Remove from heat and cool the mixture.
- Prepare the cherry jello according to package instructions and allow it to set partially in the refrigerator.
- Once cooled, fold in the crushed pineapple and whipped topping (Dream Whip), then pour over the lemon jello layer.
- Refrigerate until fully set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the cream cheese. Additionally, you can use sugar-free jello and whipped topping for a lower-calorie option. Make sure to mix the jello thoroughly to avoid lumps and ensure a beautiful layered effect. This dish is a great way to use up extra jello from your pantry.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant jello salad is perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with dishes like glazed ham or roasted chicken, adding a refreshing contrast to savory flavors. Consider serving it alongside other desserts, such as the rich Grandma Pearl's Chocolate Gravy for a sweet ending. Garnish with fresh fruit or mint for an elegant touch before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the salad, as it may become watery upon thawing. If you need to reassemble layers, lightly stir the top layer before serving to refresh its appearance. Always keep it chilled until ready to serve to ensure the jello remains set.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red And White Jello Salad contains roughly 145 calories, with 2g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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 salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this jello salad a day ahead of time. Just ensure that it is fully set in the refrigerator before serving. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just remember to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Dream Whip?
If you don't have Dream Whip, you can use whipped cream or a store-bought whipped topping as a substitute. For a lighter option, whipped Greek yogurt can also work well. Just make sure to fold it gently into the mixture to keep it airy and fluffy.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
To make this jello salad vegan, you can use plant-based cream cheese and a vegan whipped topping. Ensure the jello is made from agar-agar or another plant-based gelatin alternative. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and colorful salad that fits into vegetarian recipes without compromising on 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).