Welcome to my kitchen where every spill is a story, every burnt edge a lesson, and every dish a love letter to flavor. I’m Emma, a small-town cook with a big heart and a lifelong passion for turning simple ingredients into moments of connection. Inspired by my grandmother’s tales told over bubbling pots, I’ve made it my mission to blend tradition and creativity, serving up recipes that are comforting, fresh, and joy-filled. Whether you’re just starting out or know your way around a whisk, I want you to feel at home here, curious, confident, and ready to make something delicious from scratch.
Cranberry Jello Salad is a delightful dish packed with flavors that dance together beautifully. The tartness of cranberry pairs perfectly with the sweet notes of pineapple and mandarin oranges, creating a refreshingly fruity experience. This Jello salad is not only a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also quick to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave ease yet want something comforting. Light and nutritious, it brings a wonderful mix of nostalgia and vibrancy to your table, satisfying your hunger without weighing you down.
Serving Versatility
When it comes to versatility, Cranberry Jello Salad shines! It can be enjoyed as a standalone dish, or you can serve it creatively over rice or noodles for a unique combination. Feeling adventurous? Wrap it into a lettuce or a tortilla for a fresh twist. It’s even great on its own during a cozy gathering or a warm family meal.
Full Recipe Section
Ingredients:
- 1 package cranberry Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, dissolve the Jello in boiling water. Stir in cold water.
- Refrigerate until partially set, about 1 hour.
- Once the Jello is slightly thickened, fold in the crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, chopped pecans, and mini marshmallows if using.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or serving dish and refrigerate until completely set, about 4 hours.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or dessert.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Get this salad ready in no time!
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Simple items that won’t break the bank.
- Big, Cozy Flavor: A love letter to your taste buds!
- Nutritional Value: Packed with fruit goodness.
- Customizability: Feel free to add your favorite fruits or nuts!
Cultural or Cooking Technique Note
Cranberry Jello Salad has roots in American cuisine, often appearing at potlucks and family gatherings. The technique of molding Jello has been around for decades, making it a beloved classic in many homes.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve it over fluffy rice for a delightful contrast.
- Noodle Salad: Toss it with noodles for a refreshing dish.
- In Wraps: Roll it up in lettuce or tortillas for a fun twist!
- Solo: Enjoy it just as it is for a satisfying treat.
Pro Tips for Success
- Ensure your boiling water is truly boiling to give the Jello the best dissolve.
- Let the salad chill until fully set for the best texture.
- Experiment with different fruits – strawberries, or blueberries are great additions!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for about five days. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat—just dive in!
As you try this Cranberry Jello Salad, I encourage you to make it your own! Experiment with fruit and nuts, and find what brings you joy. Share your creations, rate the recipe, and leave a comment about your experience.
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be a joyful journey, and I hope this recipe inspires you to create in your own kitchen. Remember, every dish holds a bit of your heart, and your own stories will unfold with each recipe.
Follow me on Pinterest for more cozy, quick, and nostalgic recipes.
If you loved this recipe, don’t miss my related recipe for another comforting favorite.
Cranberry Jello Salad
Ingredients
For the Jello Salad
- 1 package cranberry Jello
- 1 cup boiling water Ensure water is at a rolling boil.
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows Optional ingredient.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, dissolve the Jello in boiling water. Stir in cold water.
- Refrigerate until partially set, about 1 hour.
- Once the Jello is slightly thickened, fold in the crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, chopped pecans, and mini marshmallows if using.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or serving dish and refrigerate until completely set, about 4 hours.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or dessert.