Spiced Waldorf Salad
A vibrant, fruity salad with a hint of spice, combining sweet cherries, cinnamon candies, and crisp apples and celery, perfect for a refreshing dessert or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cinnamon candies and 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Heat and stir until the candies dissolve.
- Add the cherry jello to the mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Add 2 cups of cold water and chill until the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Add the diced apples, celery, and chopped nuts to the jello mixture.
- Refrigerate several hours until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this Spiced Waldorf Salad, consider using green apples for a tart flavor or swapping in walnuts for the chopped nuts. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add a little honey or maple syrup to the jello mixture. Ensure the jello is well chilled before mixing in the fruits and nuts for optimal texture. This salad resembles the delicious Frozen Crunchy Punch in its fruity elements.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spiced Waldorf Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish and is a great addition to holiday meals. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Aunt Helen's Marinated Carrots or a light leafy green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly watery as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the jello and fruit will not hold up well after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Waldorf Salad contains roughly 464 calories, with 10g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1050mg per serving (46% 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 Spiced Waldorf Salad a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
What types of nuts work best in this recipe?
Pecans and walnuts are classic choices that add great flavor and crunch to the salad. However, you can also use almonds or cashews if you prefer. Just ensure they are chopped finely to mix well with the other ingredients.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Spiced Waldorf Salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients. For vegan recipes, ensure any added sweeteners like honey are replaced with agave syrup or another plant-based alternative to keep it 100% vegan.
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).