Are you looking for a quick and easy recipe that's perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a simple weeknight dessert? Look no further! This Jello Cranberry Salad recipe is a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and refreshing flavors, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It's a classic for a reason – it’s incredibly simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is always a welcome addition to any meal. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes a generous serving of this delightful salad. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 (3 ounce) package cranberry-flavored gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 (12 ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup miniature marshmallows (optional)
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly set and delicious Jello Cranberry Salad:
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Bloom the Gelatin: In a medium-sized bowl, sprinkle the cranberry-flavored gelatin over the boiling water. Let it sit for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gelatin is completely dissolved. This is a crucial step to ensure a smooth texture.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cranberry sauce, orange juice, and optional pecans or walnuts to the gelatin mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is well combined. The orange juice adds a lovely citrusy brightness that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
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Chill and Set: Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch dish or individual serving glasses. If using marshmallows, gently fold them in at this stage. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until the salad is completely set. Patience is key here; a fully set salad is much more enjoyable.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once set, cut the Jello Cranberry Salad into squares and serve. This refreshing salad is perfect on its own or served alongside other festive dishes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Jello Cranberry Salad:
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Use fresh cranberries: If you're feeling ambitious, you can substitute the canned cranberry sauce with homemade cranberry sauce. This will give the salad a more intense cranberry flavor.
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Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of cranberry sauce slightly or add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tartness.
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Get creative with additions: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins. Some popular options include mandarin oranges, chopped apples, or even crumbled gingersnaps.
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Make it ahead: This salad is best made a day or two in advance to allow the flavors to fully meld.
Variations:
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Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of lime zest or orange zest for an extra layer of citrus flavor.
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Spiced Cranberry: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the gelatin mixture for a warm, spiced cranberry flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 2-3g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Sugar: High (due to gelatin and cranberry sauce)
This Jello Cranberry Salad is a delicious and easy recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a guaranteed hit with your family and guests. Enjoy making and sharing this simple yet delightful dish!