Are you craving a refreshing and easy-to-make salad that's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner? Then look no further! This 5-cup salad recipe, a beloved classic, is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, creamy textures, and crunchy bits. It's a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more. This recipe is among the best recipes for its simplicity and deliciousness. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is also perfect for those seeking healthy meals without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
This easy recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick dinner idea.
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
- 2 cups crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
Instructions:
This recipe offers a simple step-by-step guide even for beginners in the kitchen.
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Cream Together: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the mayonnaise and sugar, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Fold in the Cool Whip: Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the salad watery.
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Add the Mix-ins: Add the drained crushed pineapple, marshmallows, pecans (or walnuts), and shredded coconut. Fold gently until everything is evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly. This step enhances the overall taste and texture. Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips for the Best 5-Cup Salad:
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened before you start mixing. This will ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air and make the salad watery. Gentle folding is key!
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of sugar. You can also use less sweetened coconut.
- Nut Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds. Chopped peanuts or sunflower seeds would also be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Fruit Salad Twist: Add other fruits like mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, or chopped apples for a delightful fruit salad variation.
- Chocolate Delight: Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Make it Ahead: This salad can be made a day or two in advance, making it ideal for potlucks and parties.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 8-10g
- Cholesterol: 20-30mg
- Sodium: 100-150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 2-3g
This delicious 5-cup salad is a perfect example of a simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe. It's a wonderful addition to any gathering, and the versatility allows for creative customization to suit your preferences. Enjoy this classic dish, perfect for quick dinner ideas or a delightful addition to your next party. It’s a testament to easy recipes and healthy meals coming together perfectly.