Sour Cherry Salad
A vibrant sour cherry salad with sweet cherries, nuts, and fruity gelatin, perfect for a refreshing dessert or side dish for gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and red food coloring in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Pour the hot mixture over the cherry gelatin in a mold or bowl.
- Add the plain gelatin softened in cold water and stir until dissolved.
- Add the rind of orange and lemon for flavor.
- Stir in the juice from the drained crushed pineapple, the cherry pie cherries, nuts, and drained pineapple.
- Refrigerate until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider substituting fresh or frozen cherries for canned pie cherries. You can also replace the nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. When combining the sugar and red food coloring, adjust the amount of coloring based on your desired hue. If you prefer a lighter salad, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup and increase the crushed pineapple for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This Sour Cherry Salad is a delightful side dish for holiday gatherings or summer barbecues. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like roasted meats or grilled vegetables. For an added touch, serve it alongside a light salad or as a refreshing dessert option. Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad can be served cold directly from the fridge. If you find it has thickened too much after refrigeration, you can lightly mix it to restore its texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Cherry Salad contains roughly 217 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
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 or frozen cherries can be used for a more vibrant flavor. Just ensure they are pitted and chopped before mixing them in. Adjust the sweetness accordingly, as fresh cherries may not be as sweet as canned ones.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, the salad will take about 4-6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving to ensure it has ample time to firm up.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad can be made vegan by using plant-based gelatin alternatives. Check the packaging to ensure it's vegan-friendly, and follow the same preparation instructions for a delicious vegan dish.
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).