Ruth Gould Swanson'S Apricot Jello Salad
A light and fruity Jello salad combining apricot flavor with pineapple, cottage cheese, and Cool Whip, perfect for dessert or a refreshing side dish for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the apricot jello with boiling water until dissolved.
- Chill until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add the crushed pineapple along with its juice and stir.
- Beat the mixture with a beater to combine.
- Add cottage cheese and Cool Whip, then mix with a spoon.
- Chill again until the salad is firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of this salad, consider adding chopped nuts or mini marshmallows for added texture. If you want a lighter version, swap out the cottage cheese for Greek yogurt. Using fresh pineapple instead of canned can elevate the taste, but remember to adjust the liquid amounts. For a colorful twist, try adding diced peaches or mandarin oranges.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing apricot jello salad as a delightful side dish at summer gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Magic Puff Cookies for dessert or a fruit platter, enhancing the overall fruity theme.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover apricot jello salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. If you plan to serve it later, avoid adding Cool Whip until just before serving to maintain its fluffiness. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruth Gould Swanson'S Apricot Jello Salad contains roughly 93 calories, with 5g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value).
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, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is stored properly in the refrigerator. Make sure it sets well and add Cool Whip just before serving to keep it fluffy and fresh.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, silken tofu blended until smooth can work as a substitute for cottage cheese. For a similar texture, you can also use ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt, which will add a nice creaminess.
Is there a way to make this recipe more tart?
To add a tart flavor, mix in some fresh lemon or lime juice to the jello mixture before it sets. You can also incorporate some finely chopped fresh berries like raspberries or cranberries, which will offer a delicious contrast to the sweet apricot flavor.
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).