This cranberry jello salad is an absolute showstopper, perfect for both Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. The combination of juicy fresh cranberries, mandarin oranges, pineapple, and jello creates a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy. While it makes a fantastic dessert option, it also serves as a refreshing alternative to traditional canned cranberry sauce. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for potlucks and holiday gatherings, with even the most discerning palates sure to appreciate its fruity charm.
When planning your Thanksgiving spread, be sure to include this homemade cranberry jello salad with pineapple and oranges – it’s a match made in heaven! The jello adds a distinct texture that complements the turkey perfectly. And if you’re looking for more innovative side dishes to round out your menu, consider trying a sweet potato kale salad, a Mediterranean quinoa salad, or a garden veggie macaroni salad with creamy avocado dressing.
Why You’ll Love It
This cranberry jello salad is a delightful addition to any holiday table. Its ease of preparation and refrigeration make it a convenient option for busy hosts. The harmonious blend of fresh cranberries, other fruits, and crunchy walnuts promises a burst of flavor with each bite. As an added bonus, you can serve it as a sweet treat with homemade whipped cream. Furthermore, the recipe’s versatility allows you to customize it to your taste by substituting different nuts, fruits, or flavors of jello.
How to Make Thanksgiving or Christmas Jello Salad
To create this refreshing cranberry jello salad, start by preparing the cranberries. Rinse them thoroughly, remove any debris, and pulse them in a food processor until they’re broken down into small pieces, almost like tiny peas. Next, prepare the canned fruit by draining the liquid from the crushed pineapple and oranges, setting it aside separately from the solids. Then, create the jello mixture by whisking together the jello powder and boiling water until it dissolves, followed by adding sugar and canned fruit juices. Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the prepared cranberries, the fruit solids from the cans, and chopped walnuts. Finally, pour the mixture into a serving dish, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the most exciting aspects of this cranberry jello salad recipe is the flexibility it offers. Want to switch things up? No problem! Consider substituting strawberry gelatin with cherry or raspberry jello for a unique flavor profile. Alternatively, you can swap out the walnuts for almonds or pecans to alter the texture and nutty taste. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not add some diced apples to the mix? The sweetness of the apples pairs surprisingly well with the tartness of the cranberries. If you find yourself enjoying the combination, you might also appreciate this special maple apple whiskey sour cocktail recipe.
How to Store Cranberry Jello Salad
When storing leftovers, keep them fresh for up to five days by sealing them in an airtight container and placing them in the refrigerator. However, if you decide to freeze this dish, be prepared for a notable change in texture. Upon thawing, you may notice that the tiny liquid pockets within the jello mixture have transformed into firm gelatinous chunks, while the gelatin itself remains pliable. For a unique taste experience, consider freezing some and then reheating it to see how the flavors have evolved.
Thanksgiving Jello Salad FAQs
When opting for fresh fruit over canned, can you achieve the same results? Absolutely! Simply add 1 1/2 cups of water to replace the juice or syrup typically found in canned options. This substitution won’t compromise the flavor or texture of your final product. Meanwhile, when it comes to unmolding the cranberry jello salad, don’t even attempt it. The loose consistency of this particular recipe means it will disintegrate into a mess if you try to invert it. Instead, choose a visually appealing serving bowl and proudly present your festive cranberry creation in its intended form.
Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe
Cranberry Jello Salad
Bella Bucchiotti’s Cranberry Jello Salad, infused with the sweetness of pineapple and oranges, is a show-stopping holiday centerpiece. The vibrant color palette makes it an ideal addition to any festive gathering. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a chilling period of four hours, this salad can be effortlessly incorporated into your holiday schedule. In total, the process takes approximately four hours and 10 minutes to complete. This recipe yields 16 servings, making it an excellent choice for parties and gatherings.
Instructions
To prepare the cranberry mixture, start by thoroughly rinsing and picking over the cranberries to remove any debris or impurities. Then, pulse them in a food processor 10 to 12 times until they’re roughly pea-sized. Next, drain the liquid from the oranges and pineapple, reserving it for later use. This juice will be incorporated into the gelatin mixture. In a large bowl, empty the gelatin powder and bring the water to a full boil. Carefully measure out one cup of boiling water and add it to the gelatin, whisking for about a minute until it’s fully dissolved. Add the sugar to the gelatin mixture and whisk until well combined. Then, stir in the reserved orange and pineapple juice. Finally, gently combine the cranberries, oranges, pineapples, and walnuts. Pour the mixture into a serving dish and cover it. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
When preparing this cranberry salad, it’s crucial that the water reaches a rolling boil to activate the gelatin properly. Boiling just one cup of water may lead to some evaporation and affect the overall texture. Instead, consider boiling 2 cups of water, then measuring out the desired 1 cup. This ensures an accurate measurement and helps the salad set correctly.
Additionally, you can use either juice or syrup packed with the oranges and pineapple in this recipe. If using fresh fruit, simply omit the canned juice and add 1 cup of water to the gelatin mixture to account for the difference. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and set cranberry salad.