Royal Salad
A vibrant, fruity gelatin salad featuring cranberries, orange, and pineapple, perfect for festive occasions or light, refreshing dessert options for any gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry jello in boiling water.
- Add sugar, pineapple juice, and salt to the dissolved jello and chill until partially set.
- Add ground raw cranberries, grated orange peel and juice, and crushed drained pineapple to the partially set jello.
- Mix well and pour into molds.
- Chill until fully set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Royal Salad, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of cinnamon to the cranberries. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup. For a vegan version, ensure the jello is plant-based. Experimenting with different fruits like diced apples or pears can also add a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Royal Salad is a perfect side dish for holiday meals or summer barbecues. It pairs beautifully with dishes like roasted turkey or grilled chicken. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing as it may alter the consistency of the jello. When ready to serve, simply spoon out portions directly from the container without reheating, as this dish is best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Royal Salad contains roughly 140 calories, with 2g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Royal Salad a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe and let it chill overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent any absorption of other odors in the fridge.
What can I substitute for cherry jello?
If you want a different flavor, you can easily substitute cherry jello with raspberry or strawberry jello. Each will give a unique twist to the salad while maintaining a similar texture. For a healthier option, consider using a fruit-flavored gelatin made from natural ingredients.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Absolutely! Royal Salad is a fun and colorful dish that children often enjoy. The sweetness of the jello combined with the tartness of the cranberries makes it appealing. Just ensure there are no allergies to the ingredients used, especially with cranberries and pineapple.
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).