Whole Cranberry Salad
A festive, tangy salad combining tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and crisp celery in a sweet cherry jello base, perfect for holiday gatherings or light desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fix jello as directed, omitting 1 cup of cold water.
- Chill the jello until set.
- Add the cranberries, chopped pecans, and chopped celery to the jello.
- Chill until the mixture is firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider blending the whole cranberries slightly before adding them to the jello. You can substitute walnuts for pecans if desired, or use a sugar-free jello version for a lighter option. If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped celery from the store, which will save prep time without compromising flavor. This dish can also be made ahead of time for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
This Whole Cranberry Salad is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with roast turkey or glazed ham. It complements the flavors of a festive meal and adds a pop of color to your table. Serve it alongside dishes like Boston Style Butt for a complete feast. You can also garnish with fresh mint leaves for a touch of elegance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain its texture. Avoid freezing, as the jello may become watery upon thawing. When ready to serve leftovers, you can enjoy them cold directly from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Cranberry Salad contains roughly 304 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 use fresh cranberries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but they will need to be sweetened and cooked slightly to soften them before adding to the jello. Boil them with a bit of sugar and water until they pop and become tender. This will give a fresher flavor, but canned cranberries are more convenient.
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
To make this Whole Cranberry Salad vegan, use agar-agar as a substitute for jello. Ensure the jello mix is plant-based as some brands may contain gelatin. Additionally, you can replace chopped pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
How can I make this salad more festive?
To enhance the festive feel of your Whole Cranberry Salad, consider adding diced oranges or apples for a fruity twist. Dried cranberries or raisins can also add a chewy texture. Additionally, incorporating a splash of orange juice into the jello mixture will elevate the flavor profile and freshness.
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).