Cranberry Jello Salad is like that one friend who brings a burst of flavor and color to every gathering. Picture this: a vibrant, wobbly concoction that dances on your taste buds with every bite. The combination of tart cranberries mingling with sweet pineapple and the crunch of celery creates an unexpected symphony of flavors. savory side dish for holiday meals perfect dessert pairing for celebrations It’s the kind of dish that demands attention at holiday dinners or family picnics, making everyone wonder just how you managed to whip up such a delightful treat.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use fresh cranberries in this cranberry jello salad?
- How long does cranberry jello salad last in the fridge?
- Can I make cranberry jello salad ahead of time?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let’s take a stroll down memory lane. I remember vividly the first time my grandma served this Cranberry Jello Salad at Thanksgiving dinner. The laughter around the table was as loud as the clinking silverware, and I was convinced that if I could replicate her magic, I would be crowned the family chef. delicious cookie recipe to complement Spoiler alert: it worked! With its glossy red hue and playful jiggly texture, this salad quickly became my go-to recipe for any occasion—because who doesn’t love a dish that tastes as good as it looks? seasonal cookie treat for gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Jello Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy hosts or last-minute gatherings
- Its sweet-tart flavor profile makes it a delightful contrast to savory dishes
- The stunning ruby-red appearance will grab everyone’s attention on your table
- Versatile enough for holidays or everyday meals, it’s a classic that never goes out of style
Sharing this dish always brings smiles and compliments from friends and family, creating memorable moments around the table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cranberry Juice: Opt for 100% juice for an authentic flavor without added sugars.
- Gelatin Powder: Use unflavored gelatin to achieve that perfect jiggly consistency.
- Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned works; just ensure they are drained well to avoid excess liquid.
- Celery Stalks: Finely chopped celery adds a refreshing crunch that balances the sweetness.
- Walnuts: Chopped walnuts enhance texture and introduce a nutty richness; feel free to substitute with pecans if preferred.
- Sugar: Just a touch of sugar enhances the flavors; adjust based on your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Mixture : Start by combining cranberry juice and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until dissolved. Bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
Add Gelatin : Sprinkle gelatin over the juice mixture while stirring continuously until fully dissolved. Remove from heat once it’s all combined.
Add Fruit and Veggies : Stir in pineapple chunks, chopped celery, and walnuts into the gelatin mixture until evenly distributed. The colors should start looking like a festive celebration!
Pour into Molds : Pour your mixture into serving molds or a large bowl. Ensure it’s evenly spread out so each slice has an even distribution of fruit.
Chill Until Set : Place in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight if possible. You want it firm enough to hold its shape when served.
Serve with Flair : Once set, carefully unmold onto a serving plate (if using molds) or simply scoop out servings from the bowl with a big smile!
The process is simple yet rewarding—watching that colorful salad jiggle as you present it is half the fun! Enjoy every mouthful as you dive into nostalgia and flavor with this crowd-pleaser!
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry jello salad is not just a side dish; it’s a holiday centerpiece
- Its vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor will brighten any table
- Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, allowing you to focus on other dishes or, you know, binge-watching your favorite show
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by boiling water and dissolving the gelatin before adding cranberry juice and other ingredients. Make sure to chill it until set for the best texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different fruits like pineapple or add nuts for crunch. A dash of cinnamon can give it a unique twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store your cranberry jello salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. No reheating needed; serve chilled for maximum enjoyment. For more inspiration, check out this Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your gelatin mixture cool while adding fruit to prevent clumping
- Always taste before serving; adjust sweetness if necessary
- Remember, presentation matters—use a clear dish for an eye-catching display!
I once made this cranberry jello salad for Thanksgiving, and my cousin couldn’t stop raving about it. It became an instant family favorite, proving that even simple recipes can create lasting memories!
FAQ
Can I use fresh cranberries in this cranberry jello salad?
Fresh cranberries can be used but require cooking down with sugar first.
How long does cranberry jello salad last in the fridge?
This salad stays fresh for about five days when stored properly.
Can I make cranberry jello salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for making ahead and serving chilled later.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Cranberry Jello Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves about 8
Description
Cranberry Jello Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that adds a burst of flavor and color to any gathering. This delightful combination of tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and crunchy celery creates a unique symphony of tastes that will impress your guests. Perfect for holiday dinners or family picnics, this easy-to-make salad will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cranberry juice (100% juice)
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp unflavored gelatin powder
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine cranberry juice, water, and sugar over medium heat until dissolved. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Sprinkle gelatin over the mixture while stirring continuously until fully dissolved; remove from heat.
- Stir in pineapple chunks, chopped celery, and walnuts until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into molds or a large bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
