Tart Cherry Salad
A refreshing tart cherry salad with pineapple, nuts, and coconut, layered in a cherry Jell-O mold, perfect for summer gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain cherries and pineapple, reserving the juices.
- Add enough water to the reserved juices to make 3 1/4 cups of liquid.
- Combine the juice mixture with sugar and bring to a boil.
- Add cherry Jell-O to the boiling mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Remove from heat and add the drained fruit and ginger ale.
- Chill until very thick but not set.
- Stir in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart ring mold.
- Chill until the Jell-O is fully set.
Tips & Substitutions
For added texture, consider using walnuts or pecans as a substitute for the chopped nuts. If you're looking for a healthier version, you can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute that is suitable for Jell-O. When boiling the juice mixture, make sure to stir continuously to prevent sticking or burning.
Serving Suggestions
This Tart Cherry Salad is a delightful addition to any potluck or family gathering. Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or as a dessert with whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a light summer meal or can complement dishes like Barbecue Chicken (Diet).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad starts to lose its shape, simply stir it gently before serving. Avoid freezing, as this may alter the texture of the Jell-O and fruits.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tart Cherry Salad contains roughly 455 calories, with 7g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 8g 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this Tart Cherry Salad a day in advance. Just ensure it is properly chilled and fully set before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe can be made vegan by using a plant-based Jell-O alternative and ensuring that the nuts are free from any animal-derived ingredients. Additionally, check that the ginger ale is vegan-friendly.
What can I substitute for cherry Jell-O?
If you don’t have cherry Jell-O, you can use a different flavor, like raspberry or strawberry, for a unique twist. Just be aware that this may change the overall flavor profile of the salad.
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).