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–+ servings
Cranberry Salad
Cranberry Salad is a classic mid-century American dish that blends sweet, tart, and fruity flavors into a refreshing molded side or dessert. Popularized during the rise of gelatin-based recipes in the 1950s and 60s, this dish reflects the era’s fascination with convenience foods like flavored gelatin and canned or frozen fruits. The combination of strawberry gelatin, cranberries, pineapple, and citrus relish creates a bright, tangy profile, while apples and grapes add texture and freshness. Often served chilled at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or Sunday dinners, it stands out for its vibrant color and balance of sweetness and acidity.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Course Dessert, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 oz strawberry gelatin (2 packages)
  • 2 cups hot water
  • 20 oz crushed pineapple (undrained)
  • 12 oz frozen cranberry and orange relish (, thawed)
  • 1 apple (chopped)
  • 1 cup white grapes (halved)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Dissolve Gelatin

  • In a large bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of hot water.
  • Stir until fully dissolved.

Step 2: Cool Slightly

  • Allow the gelatin mixture to cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Add Fruit Base

  • Stir in the crushed pineapple with its juice.

Step 4: Add Cranberries and Relish

  • Mix in the thawed cranberries and orange relish until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add Fresh Fruit

  • Fold in the chopped apple and/or halved grapes.

Step 6: Chill

  • Pour into a serving dish or mold.
  • Refrigerate until fully set, about 3–4 hours.

Tips

  • •Substitute raspberry or cherry gelatin for a different flavor
  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
  • Use fresh cranberries for a tarter taste
  • Replace orange relish with mandarin oranges
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream when serving
  • Use green grapes for color contrast
  • Reduce sugar by using sugar-free gelatin
  • Chill in individual cups for easy serving

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 2gFat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 85mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 3gSugar: 36gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword cranberry salad, fruit salad, holiday side dish, jello salad, nostalgic food, potluck favorite, retro recipes, vintage recipes
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