This festive Xmas Cranberry Salad is a refreshing, sweet-tart dish that blends classic holiday flavors into a colorful, vibrant treat. Often served as a side or dessert during Christmas meals, it balances the tartness of cranberries with the citrusy punch of orange, sweetened Jello, and the crunch of apples, celery, and nuts. The optional addition of marshmallows gives it a nostalgic, creamy twist. This recipe reflects a mid-century holiday tradition where gelatin salads were the centerpiece of celebratory meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh cranberries
- 1 orange (with peel)
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 pkg lemon Jello (or lime Jello)
- 1 pint warm water
- 1 cup nut meats (chopped walnuts or pecans)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
- 1 cup celery (chopped )
- 1 cup apples (chopped )
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cranberries and Orange
- Grind cranberries and orange (including peel) using a food grinder or processor.
Step 2: Sweeten the Mixture
- Add sugar to the ground fruit. Mix well and let stand overnight.
Step 3: Dissolve Jello
- Dissolve Jello in 1 pint of warm water. Let it cool until half set.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add fruit mixture to the Jello.
- Stir in chopped nut meats, marshmallows (if using), celery, and apples.
Step 5: Chill the Salad
- Pour into a mold or serving dish.
- Refrigerate until fully set—at least 4 hours or overnight.
Tips
- Use lime Jello for a greener, more festive appearance.
- Substitute crushed pineapple for celery for a sweeter twist.
- Add chopped red or green maraschino cherries for extra color.
- Use pecans for a milder nut flavor or walnuts for a bolder crunch.
- Use whipped cream as a topping for serving
Nutrition
Calories: 313kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 53mgPotassium: 146mgFiber: 3gSugar: 55gVitamin A: 115IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 22mgIron: 0.5mg
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