Strawberry-Cranberry Jello Salad
A vibrant, fruity jello salad combining cranberries, strawberries, and pineapple, perfect for holiday gatherings or light desserts, offering a refreshing burst of flavor and color.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cranberries and strawberries with water until the berries pop.
- Add unflavored gelatin and raspberry jello, stir until all are dissolved.
- Add the crushed pineapple and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into 8 dishes or a single serving bowl.
- Chill until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of vanilla extract. If you prefer a sweeter jello salad, substitute regular raspberry jello for the sugar-free variety. For a different texture, you can fold in mini marshmallows or chopped nuts before chilling. Make sure to use fresh cranberries and strawberries for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry-Cranberry Jello Salad is a delightful addition to any meal and pairs beautifully with Easy Party Fruit Punch. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats or at a summer picnic. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch, or serve it as a refreshing dessert after a hearty dish like Cabbage Meat Skillet.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The jello salad can be enjoyed cold, and it’s best not to freeze it, as the texture may change. If it becomes too firm after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strawberry-Cranberry Jello Salad contains roughly 325 calories, with 3g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 9g 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 use fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Both fresh and frozen cranberries can be used in this recipe. If you opt for frozen cranberries, there's no need to thaw them beforehand; just add them directly to the pot. However, fresh cranberries will yield a slightly brighter flavor and texture.
How long does it take for the jello salad to set?
Typically, the jello salad will need at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to set properly. For the best results, prepare it the night before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures a firmer texture.
Can I make this jello salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Strawberry-Cranberry Jello Salad can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent any odors from the fridge affecting its flavor. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings.
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).