Southern Cheese Salad
A sweet and creamy Southern cheese salad blending pineapple, cherries, marshmallows, and nuts for a delightful dessert or side dish perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese with mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add lemon juice, pineapple juice, drained crushed pineapple, marshmallows, cherries, and chopped pecans.
- Blend all ingredients well.
- Fold in the whipped cream gently until fully combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also use low-fat cream cheese. Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture. If you're short on time, pre-chopped pecans can save you a step. This salad can be enhanced with a touch of shredded coconut for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Cheese Salad makes a delightful side for barbecues or potlucks and pairs beautifully with French Apple Bread Pudding for a sweet finish. Serve it in individual cups or a large bowl for sharing. Fresh fruit on the side, such as strawberries or blueberries, can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can thicken as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream and cream cheese may change. Enjoy it cold for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Cheese Salad contains roughly 2763 calories, with 14g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 274g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1931mg 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, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious. However, add the whipped cream just before serving to keep it light and fluffy.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you need a nut-free option, consider using sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. Alternatively, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes if you still want to add some nuts. Just chop them finely to mix well with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, you can substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use vegan mayonnaise. For the whipped cream, coconut cream is a great substitute. Ensure the marshmallows are vegan-friendly, as many traditional brands contain gelatin.
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).