Welcome to my kitchen, where every spill is a story, every burnt edge a lesson, and every dish is a love letter to flavor. I’m Emma, a small-town cook with a big heart, here to share my favorite quick and healthy recipe: Cranberry Apple Pineapple Salad. Imagine vibrant cranberries dancing with sweet apples and juicy pineapple; this salad is a burst of freshness that embodies the joys of home cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines comfort, nutrition, and ease, making it a delightful dish for any table.
Serving Versatility
One of the best things about Cranberry Apple Pineapple Salad is its versatility. You can serve this delicious salad on its own as a refreshing side, or you can get creative. Try it over a bed of fluffy rice for a fun twist, or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a crunchy delight. It’s also lovely on top of noodles for a unique meal or as a low-carb option if you skip the more carb-heavy pairings. The choice is yours!
Full Recipe Section
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 apples, diced
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup whipped cream or cool whip
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, diced apples, and drained pineapple.
- Add the chopped nuts and sugar, mixing everything together well.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until the salad is well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve chilled.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this Cranberry Apple Pineapple Salad for so many reasons! First, it’s quick to prepare, making it a go-to option for those busy evenings. The ingredients are budget-friendly and full of flavor, bringing a big, cozy taste to your table. Plus, this dish is packed with nutrition from fresh fruits and nuts. You can customize it easily, adding your favorite flavors or nuts as you please!
Cultural or Cooking Technique Note
This salad has roots in American cuisine, showcasing the deliciousness of mixing fruits together. It’s often prepared for family gatherings, holidays, or just a nice summer meal, serving as a reminder of the bounties of nature.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few fun ideas to serve your Cranberry Apple Pineapple Salad:
- Over a scoop of fluffy rice
- Inside a crisp wrap with lettuce
- On top of a bed of noodles for a refreshing twist
- Enjoyed solo as a light and delightful snack
Pro Tips for Success
- When chopping your apples, try to cut them uniformly so they mix well with the other fruits.
- Use fresh cranberries for that tart flavor, and if they’re too sour for you, balance it with a touch more sugar.
- Make sure to mix gently when folding in the whipped cream to keep it light and airy.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place your Cranberry Apple Pineapple Salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to three days. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the fruit and whipped cream can change. When serving again, enjoy it cold straight from the fridge for the best flavor!
As you prepare this delightful salad, I encourage you to make it your own. Whether you add a sprinkle of cinnamon, swap nuts, or experiment with fun fruits, let your creativity shine through. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with me! If you loved this recipe, please take a moment to rate it and leave a comment—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
Final Thoughts: Here’s to many happy moments shared over food and the simple joys that spark from our kitchens. Thank you for joining me today; I can’t wait to see what you create!
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Cranberry Apple Pineapple Salad
Ingredients
Fruits and Nuts
- 2 cups fresh cranberries Use fresh cranberries for tart flavor.
- 2 pieces apples, diced Try to cut uniformly.
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans Choose your favorite nuts.
- 1/2 cup sugar Adjust according to taste.
Cream
- 1 cup whipped cream or cool whip Fold in gently for a light texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, diced apples, and drained pineapple.
- Add the chopped nuts and sugar, mixing everything together well.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until the salad is well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve chilled.