Strawberry And Cranberry Salad
A refreshing and fruity salad combining strawberries, cranberries, pineapple, and cream cheese for a delightful treat suitable for gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add boiling water to the strawberry Jell-O and mix well.
- Immediately add the frozen strawberries and mix thoroughly.
- Allow the mixture to cool before adding the cranberry sauce and drained pineapple.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan and refrigerate until well set.
- Cream the Philadelphia cream cheese until smooth.
- Add mayonnaise and Cool Whip to the cream cheese and mix well.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the set Jell-O before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the cream cheese mixture. You can also use fresh strawberries if preferred, though frozen will give a more consistent texture. To make the salad more festive, add chopped nuts or shredded coconut. If you like a bit more tartness, add a splash of lemon juice to the Jell-O mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a delightful side dish for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Molded Holiday Cranberry Salad, creating a colorful and refreshing spread. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats or a light fish dish for a balanced meal. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad holds up well, but the cream cheese layer may become slightly softer over time. If you want to serve it later, consider adding the cream cheese mixture just before serving to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strawberry And Cranberry Salad contains roughly 1243 calories, with 1g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 549mg per serving (24% 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 use a different flavor of Jell-O?
Absolutely! While strawberry is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other flavors like raspberry or mixed berry for a different taste profile. Just ensure the flavor complements the cranberries and pineapple for a balanced sweetness.
Is it possible to make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Prepare the Jell-O and let it set overnight in the refrigerator. You can also mix the cream cheese layer in advance and store it separately in the fridge until ready to serve. Just spread it on the set Jell-O just before serving.
Can I make this salad without cream cheese?
Yes, if you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cream cheese with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese. This will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious and creamy.
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).