Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad

Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad brings a burst of color and flavor to any meal, especially during the holidays. This delightful salad combines the sweet and tart notes of cranberry with the tropical goodness of pineapple, all held together in a wobbly, jiggly, and totally irresistible mold. Whether you’re gathering with family for a festive feast or hosting a casual get-together, this salad is sure to be a hit!

What You’ll Need for Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad

Before diving into the kitchen, let’s gather our ingredients for this tasty treat:

• 1 (14 oz) can jellied cranberry sauce (396 g)
• 1 (6 oz) package raspberry or cranberry-flavored Jell-O (170 g)
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained (567 g)
• 1 cup chopped pecans (120 g)
• 1 cup boiling water (240 ml)
• 1/2 cup cold water (120 ml)

How to Make Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad

Now that we have everything ready, let’s go through the simple steps to make this delightful salad:

1. Dissolve the Jell-O: In a large mixing bowl, pour 1 cup (240 ml) of boiling water over the Jell-O powder. Stir until it’s completely dissolved.

2. Add the liquids: Mix in 1/2 cup (120 ml) of cold water and the reserved pineapple juice, which should be about 1/2 to 3/4 cup (120 to 180 ml) from draining the crushed pineapple.

3. Incorporate the cranberry sauce: Break up the jellied cranberry sauce with a fork in a separate bowl, then add it to the Jell-O mixture. Stir well, making sure to keep some small chunks for added texture.

4. Mix in the pineapple and pecans: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and chopped pecans until everything is well combined.

5. Pour into dish: Transfer this vibrant mixture into your favorite serving dish or mold.

6. Chill and set: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the salad is completely set and firm.

7. Serve chilled: After it has set, slice it into squares or scoop it into bowls, and enjoy!

How to Serve Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad

Serving your Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad can be a fun affair! Here are a few ideas to make it look even more appetizing:

• Presentation: For a stunning display, use a clear glass serving dish to highlight the bright colors of the salad.
• Garnish: Consider topping each serving with a sprinkle of additional chopped pecans or fresh mint for a refreshing touch.
• Pairings: This tangy salad pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or ham, making it a perfect side dish for holiday dinners or special gatherings.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad

To ensure your salad turns out just right, here are a few handy tips:

• Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the jellied cranberry sauce into the Jell-O mixture rather than leaving it chunky.
• Pecan alternative: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds can easily substitute for a delightful crunch.
• Add-ins: Consider stirring in some mini marshmallows or shredded coconut for an extra special twist.

Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the fridge for up to a week.

What’s the best way to slice the salad?
To slice the salad, run a knife along the edges and then cut it into squares while it’s still in the dish. A warm knife makes slicing easier!

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain the fresh pineapple well to avoid excess moisture.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a refreshing side dish or a nostalgic treat, Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad is sure to please everyone at the table. So why not give it a try at your next gathering? Your friends and family will love it!

Cranberry Pineapple Jell-O Salad

A vibrant and delicious salad combining the sweet and tart flavors of cranberry and pineapple, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 160

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Salad Ingredients

• 1 can jellied cranberry sauce (14 oz) (396 g)
• 1 package raspberry or cranberry-flavored Jell-O (6 oz) (170 g)
• 1 can crushed pineapple, drained (20 oz) (567 g)
• 1 cup chopped pecans (120 g)
• 1 cup boiling water (240 ml)
• 1/2 cup cold water (120 ml)

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large mixing bowl, pour 1 cup (240 ml) of boiling water over the Jell-O powder. Stir until it's completely dissolved.
2. Mix in 1/2 cup (120 ml) of cold water and the reserved pineapple juice, about 1/2 to 3/4 cup (120 to 180 ml) from draining the crushed pineapple.
3. In a separate bowl, break up the jellied cranberry sauce with a fork, then add it to the Jell-O mixture. Stir well, keeping some small chunks for texture.
4. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and chopped pecans until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture into your favorite serving dish or mold.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set and firm.
7. After it has set, slice it into squares or scoop it into bowls, and enjoy!

Notes

For best presentation, use a clear glass serving dish. Garnish with chopped pecans or fresh mint. Perfectly pairs with roasted turkey or ham. Can be made up to a week in advance.