Lime Cottage Cheese Molded Salad is a nostalgic dish from mid-20th century American cuisine, where gelatin-based salads reigned supreme at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday spreads. Combining sweet and savory elements, like lime Jell-O, crushed pineapple, cottage cheese, and mayonnaise, this molded salad became a beloved staple for its unique texture and vibrant appearance. It reflects a culinary era when convenience and creativity were paramount in home cooking. This salad stands out as a quirky yet charming representation of vintage American food culture.
Ingredients
- 3 oz lime Jell-O
- 3 oz lemon Jell-O
- 1 ½ cup clear evaporated milk (whipped)
- 8 oz crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup boiling water
- Optional: chopped nuts
Instructions
Step 1: Dissolve Gelatin
- Dissolve both lime and lemon Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine whipped evaporated milk, crushed pineapple, chopped celery, cottage cheese, and mayonnaise.
Step 3: Combine with Gelatin
- Slowly pour the dissolved gelatin into the mixture, stirring until well blended.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
- Pour the mixture into a mold or serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Step 5: Serve
- Unmold before serving and top with chopped nuts if desired.
Tips
- Substitute plain Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a tangier, healthier twist
- Add diced green apples for extra crunch and tartness
- Use a decorative gelatin mold for a classic presentation
- Swap out cottage cheese for cream cheese for a richer flavor
- Add mini marshmallows for a sweeter, dessert-like version
Nutrition
Calories: 363kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 8gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 13gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 420mgPotassium: 211mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 225IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 153mgIron: 0.2mg
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