Are you ready for a blast from the past? This Seven Up Salad recipe isn't your grandma's casserole, but it's definitely a nostalgic favorite that's surprisingly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. This refreshing salad is perfect for potlucks, summer barbecues, or any time you crave a sweet and tangy treat. It's a quick dinner idea, too, if you’re looking for something light and different. Forget complicated cooking; this one's all about simple, homemade goodness.
Ingredients:
This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- 1 (8 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 (11 ounce) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup Seven Up or lemon-lime soda
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly refreshing Seven Up Salad every time.
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Combine the fruits: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the undrained crushed pineapple and drained mandarin oranges.
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Add the marshmallows and nuts: Add the miniature marshmallows and your choice of chopped pecans or walnuts (if using) to the bowl. Gently mix everything together.
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sugar until well combined. Slowly drizzle in the Seven Up or lemon-lime soda, whisking continuously to create a smooth dressing.
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Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the fruit and marshmallow mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is key to a truly delicious salad! Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful homemade dish.
Cooking Tips for Seven Up Salad Perfection:
- Drainage is key: Make sure to drain the mandarin oranges well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. The undrained pineapple adds enough moisture.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, you can reduce the amount of sugar to 2 tablespoons. Taste and adjust to your liking.
- Nut variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds, such as sunflower seeds or chopped almonds.
- Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day! It's a perfect make-ahead dish for parties or gatherings.
Variations on a Classic:
- Creamy Dreamy: For an extra creamy salad, increase the mayonnaise to 3/4 cup.
- Tropical Twist: Add a 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
- Berrylicious: Fold in 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) for a fruity burst.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 2g
This refreshing and delicious Seven Up Salad is a perfect example of how easy and satisfying healthy meals can be. It's a testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking, bringing a taste of the past to your modern table. Enjoy this delicious dish and happy cooking!