Rose'S Bing Cherry Salad
A vibrant, fruity gelatin salad featuring cherries, pineapple, and a hint of cola, complemented by cream cheese, celery, and nuts—perfect for parties and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the juice to boiling.
- Pour the boiling juice over both packages of gelatin and stir well.
- Add 2 cans of Coca-Cola to the gelatin mixture.
- Chill until the gelatin is slightly thickened.
- Mix together the cream cheese, diced celery, chopped nuts, and the drained cherries and pineapple.
- Fold the cream cheese mixture into the thickened gelatin.
- Refrigerate until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute. You can also swap out the nuts for seeds if you're looking for a nut-free option. Adjust the sweetness by using unsweetened fruit for a less sugary taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Rose's Bing Cherry Salad makes a delightful side dish at summer gatherings or potlucks. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a refreshing addition to a picnic spread. It pairs beautifully with Berry-Orange Cake for dessert, creating a balanced meal that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If it becomes too firm after chilling, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rose'S Bing Cherry Salad contains roughly 78 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 cherries instead of canned?
Yes, fresh Bing cherries can be used instead of canned. Just make sure to pit and chop them before adding to the salad. Keep in mind that fresh fruit may alter the texture slightly, making it less sweet.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative. You can also use agar-agar instead of gelatin to set the mixture. Ensure that the remaining ingredients are also vegan-friendly, such as using a suitable fruit juice.
What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. It complements grilled chicken or fish beautifully and can be served alongside vegetarian options like Cottage Cheese Dinner Rolls. For a more festive touch, consider serving it at brunch with mimosas or as a side for holiday meals.
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).