Sabena Salad
A creamy, tangy salad with pineapple, nuts, and celery, perfect for potlucks and gatherings, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lemon Jell-O in the juice from the No. 2 can of crushed pineapple by heating and then chilling.
- Mash the Philadelphia cream cheese until smooth.
- Finely chop the celery.
- Chop the nuts (pecans or walnuts).
- Drain the pimentos and chop if desired.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dissolved Jell-O, mashed cream cheese, chopped celery, nuts, pimentos, crushed pineapple, and salt.
- Fold in the whipped cream gently until well blended.
- Pour into a mold or serving dish and chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mashing. If you prefer a tart flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the mixture. For those avoiding nuts, you can substitute with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. This salad is a great addition to potlucks or holiday gatherings, pairing well with dishes like Broccoli-Carrot Surprise.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sabena Salad as a delightful side dish during summer picnics or family gatherings. It pairs nicely with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light dessert. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Jeane Ann'S Cinnamon, Caramel Or Dinner Rolls for a satisfying combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad is best enjoyed chilled, so there's no need to reheat. Simply serve it cold from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sabena Salad contains roughly 335 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of potassium (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1934mg per serving (84% 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, you can prepare the Sabena Salad a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, pour it into a mold, and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures it's perfectly set by serving time.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free substitute, you can use vegan cream cheese or silken tofu blended until smooth. Both alternatives will maintain the salad's creamy texture while offering a different flavor profile.
Is it possible to freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended for the Sabena Salad, as the texture of the Jell-O and whipped cream may change upon thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
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).