Strawberry, Cranberry, Pineapple Salad
A refreshing fruit salad combining strawberries, cranberries, pineapple, and Jell-O, perfect for holiday gatherings or summer parties, offering a sweet, tangy, and fruity flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple well.
- Combine the pineapple juice with water to make 3 cups.
- Bring the water and juice mixture to a boil.
- Pour the boiling mixture over the strawberry Jell-O and stir until dissolved.
- Add the jellied cranberry sauce and mix well.
- Stir in the drained pineapple and the frozen strawberries.
- Continue stirring occasionally until everything is thawed and well mixed.
- Refrigerate until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your salad, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the Jell-O with a sugar-free version. For a festive twist, mix in some chopped nuts or shredded coconut. Ensure the frozen strawberries are thawed completely before mixing to avoid excess water.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry, Cranberry, Pineapple Salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for barbecues or summer picnics. Serve it chilled on a bed of greens for a colorful presentation. It pairs beautifully with Lemon-Fruit Dessert (Quick) for a delightful meal finish. Consider offering whipped cream on the side for those who enjoy a creamy addition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing the salad, as it may become watery when thawed. If you do freeze it, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strawberry, Cranberry, Pineapple Salad contains roughly 172 calories, with 1g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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 strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries! Just slice them and add them to the mixture. However, note that the texture may be different, and fresh strawberries won't provide the same chilling effect as frozen ones.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, the salad will need at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to set properly. For best results, prepare it the night before serving, allowing it to chill overnight for a firmer texture.
What can I substitute for jellied cranberry sauce?
If you don't have jellied cranberry sauce, you can use cranberry juice combined with a bit of sugar and gelatin as a substitute. Alternatively, homemade cranberry sauce can work, but it may alter the texture slightly.
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).