Tea Garden Salad From Cooking With Hougen(Richard T. Hougen)
A vibrant, fruity gelatin salad combining citrus flavors, pineapple, and water chestnuts, perfect for light desserts, potlucks, or summer gatherings with a refreshing twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the orange jello in hot freshly made black tea.
- Add the juice drained from pineapple and oranges.
- Add additional orange juice to fill up if needed.
- Stir the mixture and place in the refrigerator until thickened.
- Drain and slice the water chestnuts.
- Add the sliced water chestnuts, pineapple, and orange sections to the jello.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased mold.
- Refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant twist, consider adding chopped nuts or diced apples for crunch. If orange jello isn't available, you can substitute with peach or apricot jello for a different flavor profile. Ensure the tea is brewed strong for the best taste, and allow the jello to cool slightly before mixing in the fruit to prevent them from sinking.
Serving Suggestions
This Tea Garden Salad is perfect as a light dessert or a unique side dish for your next gathering. It pairs beautifully with Pepper Roast or can be served alongside a refreshing salad. Garnish with mint leaves for an extra touch and serve chilled for the best experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The jello can lose its texture if frozen, so avoid that. To serve leftovers, give it a gentle stir and enjoy chilled; it’s a refreshing snack on warm days.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea Garden Salad From Cooking With Hougen(Richard T. Hougen) contains roughly 108 calories, with 1g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% 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 different flavors of jello?
Yes, you can experiment with various jello flavors such as peach or berry to create a different taste. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor profile of the salad will change, so choose a flavor that complements the fruits used.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, ensure that the jello is plant-based, as some brands contain gelatin derived from animals. You can find vegan gelatin alternatives like agar-agar to achieve a similar texture without animal products.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also complements lighter fare like a simple green salad or even a refreshing fruit platter.
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).