Yankee Fruit Salad
A refreshing and creamy fruit salad with pineapple, nuts, and pimento, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the crushed pineapple until boiling and add the lemon jello. Stir and let it cool.
- Crush the pimento and mix it with the cream cheese. Stir this mixture into the cooled gelatin.
- Add the finely cut celery and chopped nuts to the gelatin mixture.
- Fold in the whipped cream gently until well combined.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding diced apples or grapes to the salad for extra texture and flavor. If you want a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and whipped cream. Make sure the gelatin is completely cooled before adding the cream cheese mixture to avoid curdling. For nut allergies, you can replace chopped nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Yankee Fruit Salad chilled as a delightful side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Cabbage And Cheese Casserole for a balanced meal. This salad can also be a light dessert option, especially when served alongside World'S Easiest Ice Cream for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become a bit watery as it sits, so gently stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream cheese and whipped cream will not hold up well once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yankee Fruit Salad contains roughly 187 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 974mg per serving (42% 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 pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor. Just ensure it’s finely crushed and that you extract enough juice to dissolve the lemon jello properly. Fresh pineapple may also contribute a slight tanginess that complements the other flavors well.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when served.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan cream cheese alternative. Additionally, a blend of silken tofu and a bit of nutritional yeast can mimic the creaminess of cream cheese while adding a unique flavor.
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).