Sour Cherry Pineapple Salad
A vibrant and tangy sour cherry pineapple salad featuring fruity flavors, crunchy nuts, and a light gelatin base, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain juice from cherries; add lemon and orange juice, sugar, and lemon jello; bring to a boil.
- Add gelatin which has been dissolved in 1/4 cup cold water; stir until thoroughly dissolved and mix; cool.
- Add cherries (undrained), crushed pineapple, grated rinds, food coloring if desired, and chopped pecans.
- Pour into large or individual molds and chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer salad, ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before adding the fruits. If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the gelatin with agar-agar. Adding a splash of almond extract can enhance the flavor profile. If using fresh cherries, consider pitting them yourself, as canned cherries are easier but may contain added sugars.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sour Cherry Pineapple Salad as a refreshing side dish at summer gatherings or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light dessert. Consider garnishing with fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair. This dish is also a great addition to brunch menus.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat, place it in the microwave briefly, but note that the texture may change. For best results, enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Cherry Pineapple Salad contains roughly 115 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 10g 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, you can use fresh sour cherries instead of canned. Just make sure to pit them and adjust the sweetness based on your preference, as fresh cherries can vary in tartness. This will give your salad a fresher taste and enhance its overall flavor.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To make the salad more colorful, consider adding diced fruits like strawberries or kiwi. Additionally, using food coloring when mixing the gelatin can create a vibrant appearance. Just be mindful of the colors; they should complement the cherries and pineapple for a visually appealing dish.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
To make this salad suitable for vegan diets, substitute the plain gelatin with agar-agar, a plant-based gelling agent. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the jello mix, are vegan-friendly. This will allow you to enjoy a similar texture while keeping the recipe aligned with vegan recipes.
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).