Red Salad(Molded)
A vibrant, sweet and tangy red salad molded with strawberries, cranberry sauce, and nuts, perfect for festive occasions or a refreshing dessert option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen strawberries.
- Add 2 cups boiling water to the strawberry Jell-O and stir until dissolved.
- Let the Jell-O mixture set slightly until it begins to thicken.
- Add the thawed strawberries and whole cranberry sauce to the Jell-O.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts last.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate until fully set.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the Jell-O mixture. If you're short on time, you can use fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones. For a twist, substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings and pairs beautifully with Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the molded salad on a bed of greens for a refreshing presentation. It makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or a light lunch option. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream. This salad also complements American recipes, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad keeps its shape well, so there's no need to reheat it; simply serve chilled. If the texture becomes too soft, you can remix it slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Salad(Molded) contains roughly 851 calories, with 11g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (165% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 15g 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 make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day ahead of time. Just ensure it is fully set in the mold before transferring it to the serving dish. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes it an ideal option for meal prep.
What can I use instead of Jell-O?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use agar-agar or gelatin made from natural fruit juices. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, but it will still create a delicious molded salad.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute the Jell-O with a plant-based gelatin alternative, such as agar-agar. Additionally, ensure that the canned cranberry sauce does not contain gelatin. With these adjustments, you can enjoy a tasty vegan version of this classic salad.
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).