Under The Sea Pear Salad
A vibrant and refreshing pear salad layered with lime jello and cream cheese, offering a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors perfect for parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pear halves and reserve 3/4 cup of syrup.
- Dice the pears and set aside.
- Dissolve lime jello and salt in boiling water.
- Add the reserved pear syrup and lemon juice to the gelatin mixture.
- Pour 1 1/4 cups of the gelatin into a small jello mold and chill for about 1 hour.
- Once set, layer the diced pears and cream cheese over the gelatin in the mold, then pour the remaining gelatin over the top and chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using sugar-free lime jello and reduced-fat cream cheese. You can also substitute the pears with peaches or pineapple for a different flavor profile. Ensure the boiling water is truly boiling to properly dissolve the jello. Stir the mixture well to prevent clumping. If you have leftover syrup, it can be drizzled over the finished salad for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or as a dessert option after a hearty main course. It also works well as a fun addition to brunch spreads.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If the gelatin becomes too firm, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Under The Sea Pear Salad contains roughly 147 calories, with 4g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 914mg per serving (40% 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 fresh pears instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pears! Peel, core, and slice them, then blanch briefly in boiling water to soften before adding them to the gelatin. This will help maintain their texture and flavor in the salad.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make this salad vegan, you can substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Additionally, choose a gelatin substitute like agar-agar to replace the lime jello, ensuring the flavors are adjusted accordingly.
How can I add more flavor to the gelatin?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a few drops of vanilla extract to the gelatin mixture. You could also infuse the boiling water with herbs like mint or basil before adding it to the jello for a unique twist.
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).