This cranberry gelatin salad brings together a wonderful mix of sweet, tart, and fruity flavors. With cranberry, pineapple, and crunchy nuts blended into a smooth gelatin base, it’s a refreshing dish that fits perfectly at family gatherings, festive meals, or casual dinners. The ingredients are simple, but choosing the right cranberry products—especially whole berry cranberry sauce—helps create the ideal texture.
Cranberry Gelatin Recipe Ingredients
To prepare this flavorful salad, gather the following ingredients. Each one adds its own special touch to the final dish.
Main Ingredients
- Cranberry gelatin – Forms the foundation of the dish with its fruity flavor.
- Boiling water – Helps dissolve the gelatin completely.
- Cold water – Cools down the mixture and helps it set.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce – Adds richness and texture.
- Crushed pineapple (drained) – Brings a bright, sweet contrast.
- Chopped pecans – Offers a nutty crunch in every bite.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Gelatin Salad Recipe
Getting the Gelatin Smooth
Make sure the gelatin powder dissolves fully in the boiling water. Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth. Any undissolved granules can cause lumps in the salad, so this step is essential for a silky finish.
Serving Partners That Work Well
Pairing this salad with the right side dishes can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some great options that match the fruity, cool flavor of this recipe:
Best Side Dish Options
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
The crispiness of roasted sprouts combined with a tangy glaze brings an earthy balance to the sweet-tart cranberry flavors.
2. Maple-Glazed Carrots
Tender carrots coated in a warm maple glaze create a sweet, comforting addition to your plate.
3. Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Juicy herb-seasoned pork complements the fruity contrast of the gelatin salad beautifully.
4. Butternut Squash Soup
A creamy bowl of squash soup adds warmth and coziness, enhancing the refreshing coldness of the gelatin salad.
5. Apple and Walnut Stuffing
This hearty stuffing with apples and walnuts pairs wonderfully with the nutty and fruity elements in the salad.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
How to Store
Place the fully set cranberry gelatin salad in an airtight container or cover the dish tightly. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How to Freeze
If you want to freeze the salad:
- Use a freezer-safe container.
- Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Seal it tightly before freezing.
Warming Up or Softening Leftovers
- Let the salad sit in the refrigerator to firm up if it becomes too soft.
- Leave it at room temperature for 10–15 minutes if you prefer a softer bite.
- For extra flavor, enjoy it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Avoid the microwave—it can melt the gelatin and ruin the texture.
How To Make Cranberry Gelatin Salad Recipe
A refreshing, colorful salad that blends cranberry, pineapple, and pecans into a perfectly chilled treat.
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 8
- Calories: 150 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 package cranberry gelatin (3 oz)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 can whole berry cranberry sauce (14 oz)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Dissolve the cranberry gelatin completely in boiling water.
- Add cold water, then stir in the cranberry sauce, pineapple, and pecans.
- Pour the mixture into a serving dish or mold.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 4 hours or until firmly set.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Potassium: 100mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 25g
- Vitamin A: 50 IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 0.5mg
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the salad take to set?
It usually requires about 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Can I use fresh cranberries?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them with sugar and water until they resemble the texture of whole berry cranberry sauce.
Can I replace pecans with walnuts?
Yes, walnuts work beautifully and add a slightly different nuttiness.
How long does it stay fresh?
It stays good in the refrigerator for 3–4 days when properly covered.
Can I make it ahead?
Definitely! Preparing it a day or two early actually allows the flavors to blend even better.
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