Waldorf Toss
A refreshing fruit and celery salad set in a delicate Jell-O, combining crisp apples, bananas, cherries, and crunchy celery for a light, colorful treat suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Completely dissolve gelatin and salt in boiling water.
- Combine cold water and ice to make 2 1/2 cups, then add to the gelatin mixture, stirring until thick.
- Remove any unmelted ice from the mixture.
- Combine peeled apple or pear, sliced bananas, sliced cherries, and sliced celery with the gelatin.
- Chill the mixture for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the fruit mixture. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, you can substitute gelatin with agar-agar. To enhance the texture, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts for a classic Waldorf flavor. Make sure the fruit is fresh to avoid browning, especially the apple or pear.
Serving Suggestions
This Waldorf Toss is perfect as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile addition to summer meals. For a delightful dessert, consider serving it alongside Low-Fat Pineapple Angel Food Cake for a light and fruity finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the mixture as it may become watery when thawed. When ready to serve, you can bring it back to room temperature or serve it chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Waldorf Toss contains roughly 274 calories, with 7g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1966mg per serving (85% 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 other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like grapes, berries, or even pineapple for a tropical twist. Just make sure the fruits complement each other in flavor. However, avoid overly watery fruits that could change the consistency of the gelatin.
How can I make this recipe more colorful?
To add more color, include fruits like strawberries or blueberries in addition to the apples and bananas. You can also consider using colored gelatin varieties, such as raspberry or strawberry, to enhance the visual appeal of your Waldorf Toss.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this Waldorf Toss is a kid-friendly dish! The sweet fruits and fun texture of the gelatin make it appealing to children. You can also involve them in the preparation process, allowing them to help mix the fruits into the gelatin for a fun family activity.
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).