Red Hot Salad

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A vibrant and sweet-spicy gelatin dessert with a fiery twist, combining the tartness of Jell-O with the heat of red hots. Its unique flavor profile makes it a fun choice for those who enjoy bold tastes and colorful presentations, perfect for casual gatherings or adventurous eaters.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small package raspberry Jell-O
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1/4 cup red hots
  • 1 1/2 cups applesauce

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the red hots in hot water.
  2. Add the raspberry Jell-O and blend thoroughly.
  3. Allow the mixture to cool.
  4. Add the applesauce to the cooled mixture.
  5. Pour into a loaf pan and chill until set.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure the water is hot enough to completely dissolve the red hots before adding the Jell-O. If you want a sweeter touch, consider adding a splash of cranberry juice to the mixture. You can substitute raspberry Jell-O with strawberry or cherry for a different flavor. If you're looking for a vegan version, use a plant-based gelatin alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is a delightful addition to potlucks or holiday gatherings, pairing wonderfully with savory dishes like Marinated Steak. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat. For a complete meal, consider offering it alongside Apple Bars or Frozen Cranberry Salad for a lovely contrast in flavors and textures.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Red Hot Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to a week. For serving, you can enjoy it straight from the fridge or allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier slicing. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Red Hot Salad contains roughly 152 calories, with 2g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.

152 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.9g 4% DV
Total Fat 0.9g 1% DV
Carbs 36.9g 13% DV
Fiber 1g 3% DV
Sugar 22.9g 46% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 14.8mg 1% DV
Potassium 722.1mg 15% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 23.3mg 26% DV
Calcium 68.2mg 5% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 a different flavor of Jell-O?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with other Jell-O flavors. Strawberry or cherry would work well and offer a unique taste. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness according to the flavor you choose.

How long does it take for the salad to set?

The salad typically takes about 4 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving to ensure it's fully chilled and firm.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Absolutely! You can mix in diced fruits like pears or chopped berries for added texture and flavor. Just be cautious not to add too much liquid, as it may affect the setting of the Jell-O.

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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