St. Nick'S Salad
A colorful, fruity layered salad featuring raspberry gelatin, fresh raspberries, whipped cream, and marshmallows, perfect for festive gatherings or dessert tables appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the raspberry gelatin in hot water.
- Add partially defrosted raspberries and their juice to the gelatin mixture.
- Pour the mixture into an 8-inch pan or star-shaped mold and chill in the refrigerator until firm.
- Combine marshmallows and cream cheese and mix until smooth.
- Add whipped cream and beat with a beater until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream mixture over the firm gelatin layer.
- Chill thoroughly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing with the marshmallows. You can substitute the raspberries with other berries, like blueberries or strawberries, for a different flavor. If you want a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping. This salad can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve St. Nick's Salad as a festive dessert at holiday gatherings or family dinners. It pairs beautifully with a light main dish like grilled chicken or a fresh vegetable platter. For an added touch, garnish with additional raspberries or mint leaves before serving for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin layer may become slightly softer over time but will still be delicious. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change. For best results, consume within a few days to enjoy the freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of St. Nick'S Salad contains roughly 255 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 in advance?
Yes, St. Nick's Salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure you cover it properly in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it convenient for holiday parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of raspberries?
If you don't have raspberries, you can substitute them with other fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries. Each will give a unique flavor profile while maintaining the salad's delightful appearance.
How do I achieve stiff peaks in the whipped cream?
To achieve stiff peaks, ensure your whipping cream is cold and use a chilled mixing bowl. Beat it on medium-high speed until you see the peaks hold their shape. Be careful not to overbeat, as it can turn into butter.
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).