Thanksgiving Cranberry Salad
A vibrant and refreshing cranberry salad perfect for Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings. The tart cranberries and sweet pineapple are complemented by whipped cream and crunchy pecans, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures that appeal to all ages and complement festive menus.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind cranberries finely.
- Add drained crushed pineapple and cane sugar.
- Stir well and let stand in refrigerator overnight, covered.
- Two hours before serving, whip the cream or Cool Whip until fluffy.
- Add chopped pecans to the whipped cream.
- Fold the whipped cream mixture into the cranberry mixture.
- Place in a serving bowl and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to enhance the cranberry flavor. If you're short on time, you can use frozen cranberries instead of fresh. Just thaw and grind them, but be sure to drain any excess moisture. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, using Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream can add a tangy flavor while keeping it creamy.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry salad makes an excellent side dish for Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings, pairing beautifully with roasted turkey or ham. For a complete meal, serve alongside dishes like Baked Chili Cheesy Dip or Martha Odom's Cookies for dessert. A sprinkle of additional chopped pecans on top before serving adds a delightful crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream may change upon thawing. Serve chilled, and give it a gentle stir before serving again to restore its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thanksgiving Cranberry Salad contains roughly 417 calories, with 4g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making a day in advance. Allowing it to sit overnight in the refrigerator helps the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully. Just be sure to add the chopped pecans shortly before serving to maintain their crunch.
What can I substitute for cane sugar?
You can substitute cane sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these sweeteners can be sweeter than sugar. Keep in mind that using liquid sweeteners may affect the consistency slightly, so balance accordingly with the other ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. If you're looking for vegan options, swap the whipping cream or Cool Whip for coconut cream or a plant-based whipped topping. Check the labels to ensure that all ingredients meet your dietary preferences.
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).