Rhubarb Surprise

A refreshing dessert combining tangy rhubarb with sweet pineapple and orange-flavored Jell-O, perfect for summer gatherings or a light, fruity treat for family and friends.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups rhubarb
  • 1 (3 oz.) package orange Jell-O
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 can small crushed pineapple in its own juice

Instructions

  1. Cook rhubarb without water until tender.
  2. Add Jell-O, sugar, and crushed pineapple to the cooked rhubarb.
  3. Mix well in a bowl.
  4. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until set to jello consistency.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of fresh orange juice or zest along with the Jell-O and sugar. If you prefer a less sweet version, you could reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. Additionally, if rhubarb is hard to find, you can substitute with a similar tart fruit like cranberries for a unique twist. For a vegan version, use a plant-based gelatin alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This Rhubarb Surprise makes a delightful dessert on its own or can be served alongside whipped cream for added richness. It also pairs beautifully with Pear Ambrosia for a vibrant fruit platter. For a refreshing twist, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing as it may alter the consistency of the Jell-O. Serve chilled directly from the fridge for the best taste and freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Rhubarb Surprise contains roughly 216 calories, with 2g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

216 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.4g 5% DV
Total Fat 0.4g 1% DV
Carbs 54.7g 20% DV
Fiber 4g 14% DV
Sugar 18.3g 37% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 10.2mg
Potassium 460.2mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9.1mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 64.7mg 72% DV
Calcium 68.8mg 5% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% 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 fresh rhubarb instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh rhubarb is perfect for this recipe. Just ensure it is tender when cooked. If you opt for frozen rhubarb, thaw and drain excess moisture to avoid a watery consistency in your dish.

How do I adjust this recipe for a larger crowd?

To serve more people, simply double the ingredients and use a larger bowl for mixing. Ensure you have enough fridge space for the larger batch to set properly, and consider using a 9x13-inch dish for easy serving.

What can I serve with Rhubarb Surprise?

This dessert is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a slice of Mincemeat Pie(Makes Two 8-Inch Pies) for a charming dessert spread. Its tangy flavor also complements savory dishes nicely.

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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