Molded Cranberry Nut Salad is a festive and refreshing dish that adds a vibrant touch to any holiday table. This classic salad combines tart cranberries, sweet crushed pineapple, and crunchy chopped nuts, all suspended in a smooth, flavorful cranberry gelatin. The result is a beautiful, jewel-toned salad with a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors that complement each other perfectly. Easy to prepare ahead of time, this molded salad is a perfect addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering. Serve it as a side dish alongside roasted meats or as a light, fruity dessert to conclude your meal with a burst of festive cheer.
Ingredients:
- 1 (6 oz) package cranberry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 (14 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
- Dissolve the Gelatin: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the cranberry-flavored gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir for about 2 minutes until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Add 1/2 cup of cold water and mix well.
- Add Cranberry Sauce: Stir in the whole berry cranberry sauce until well combined with the gelatin mixture.
- Mix in the Ingredients: Add the drained crushed pineapple, chopped walnuts or pecans, finely chopped celery, fresh lemon juice, and grated orange zest (if using). Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Pour into a Mold: Lightly grease a 6-cup gelatin mold or bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the cranberry mixture into the mold, spreading it out evenly.
- Chill: Cover the mold with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is firm and set. For best results, refrigerate overnight.
- Unmold the Salad: To unmold, gently run a knife around the edge of the mold to loosen the gelatin. Dip the mold briefly in warm water (about 10-15 seconds) to help release it. Place a serving plate over the mold, then invert the mold and plate together. Shake gently to release the salad onto the plate.
- Serve: Garnish with additional chopped nuts or fresh cranberry sprigs for decoration, if desired. Slice and serve the Molded Cranberry Nut Salad as a side dish or dessert.
Enjoy this Molded Cranberry Nut Salad as a beautiful and flavorful addition to your holiday meals. Its bright, festive appearance and combination of sweet and tart flavors make it a classic favorite that will delight your guests!
