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–+ servings
Lime Cottage Molded Cheese Salad
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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 215 kcal

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

  • Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts as the handwritten note suggests.
  • Add marshmallows for an extra vintage texture.
  • Replace mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Swap crushed pineapple for mandarin oranges or fruit cocktail.
  • Add a few drops of green food coloring for a more vivid presentation.
  • Use lemon-lime soda instead of boiling water for a sweeter, fluffier mousse-like texture.
  • Mold in individual cups for party-friendly servings.
  • Use low-sugar gelatin and light mayo to reduce calories.

Nutrition

Calories: 215kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 4gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 1gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 280IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword 1950s, brunch potluck, cottage cheese, gelatin salad, heirloom recipe, jell-O, nostalgic food, pineapple salad, potluck, retro salad, vintage
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