Sweetheart'S Salad
A delightful sweet salad combining crushed pineapple, cherries, and creamy cheese with a hint of lemon, perfect for festive occasions or light desserts enjoyed by all.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat crushed pineapple with sugar; add softened gelatin dissolved in 1/4 cup cold water and stir until dissolved.
- Add lemon juice and let the mixture cool.
- Mash the Philadelphia cream cheese and add finely chopped maraschino cherries.
- Incorporate cherry juice into the mixture.
- Combine the cooled pineapple mixture with the cheese and cherry mixture and chill until slightly thickened.
- Whip the cream and fold it into the chilled pineapple mixture.
- Mold the salad and chill until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and light whipped cream. If you can't find maraschino cherries, fresh cherries or chopped strawberries can work as substitutes. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid any lumps in your salad. Adding a bit of crushed nuts can also give a delightful crunch to the texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweetheart's Salad is a delightful addition to any meal and pairs beautifully with Oven Creamed Potatoes or a light grilled chicken dish. Serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with extra maraschino cherries or fresh mint leaves for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing. If the salad becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving again to soften.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweetheart'S Salad contains roughly 1113 calories, with 9g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (137% of the Daily Value) and vitamin D (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you'll need to adjust the sweetness according to your taste. Fresh pineapple is less sweet than canned, so consider adding a bit more sugar if necessary.
What can I substitute for gelatin?
A vegetarian alternative to unflavored gelatin is agar-agar, which can be used in a 1:1 ratio. However, make sure to follow package instructions, as the setting process might differ.
Is this salad suitable for make-ahead meals?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it well-covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
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).