Looking for a delightful fruit side to accompany your meals? Look no further than this Grandma’s Cranberry Salad recipe. This colorful and flavorful dish has been a holiday tradition in many families, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Made with cranberries, pineapple, and pecans, this vibrant salad is a refreshing addition to any table.
Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Cranberry Salad
– Nostalgic Tradition: A cherished recipe passed down through generations.
– Delicious Textures: The mix of chopped pecans adds a crunchy element to the soft fruit.
– Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before for a stress-free holiday meal.
– Unique Flavor Profile: The blend of cranberries, pineapple, and pecans offers a unique taste experience.
Ingredient Notes
– Cherry Jell-O (3 oz box): Adds a fruity flavor and sets the salad.
– Hot Water: Dissolves the Jell-O and helps blend the ingredients.
– Sugar: Sweetens the salad and balances the tartness of the cranberries.
– Lemon Juice: Adds a hint of citrus freshness to the dish.
– Drained Crushed Pineapple: Provides a juicy sweetness to the salad.
– Pineapple Juice: Enhances the pineapple flavor and adjusts the consistency.
– Ground Cranberries: Offer a tart and fruity element.
– Orange: Adds citrus notes and complements the cranberries.
– Pecans, Chopped: Introduce a nutty crunch to the salad.
How to Make Grandma’s Cranberry Salad
– Step 1: Prepare the Jell-O Mixture
Boil a cup of water and dissolve the cherry Jell-O in a 9×13-inch pan. Add sugar, lemon juice, and pineapple juice, stirring until well dissolved.
– Step 2: Mix in the Remaining Ingredients
Add the drained crushed pineapple, ground cranberries, orange, and chopped pecans. Mix well and chill the salad overnight.
– Step 3: Tips from Grandma
Grandma’s tip: Chop pecans before blending. You can use a blender or food processor to chop cranberries and oranges for easy preparation.
Storage Options
To store Grandma’s Cranberry Salad, cover it tightly and keep it refrigerated. It can be stored for a few days, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for your holiday meals.
Variations and Substitutions
– Almond Crunch: Substitute chopped almonds for pecans for a different texture.
– Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
– Apple Addition: Include diced apples for a crisp contrast.
– Creamy Touch: Mix in a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
What to Serve With Grandma’s Cranberry Salad
– Roast Turkey: Pair this salad with a classic Thanksgiving turkey for a festive meal.
– Ham: Serve it alongside glazed ham for a sweet and savory combination.
– Spinach Salad: Balance the meal with a light spinach salad.
– Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweet flavors of this casserole complement the tangy salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I use fresh cranberries instead of pre-ground?
Yes, fresh cranberries can be finely chopped or ground in a food processor for this recipe.
– How long does Grandma’s Cranberry Salad last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when properly covered.
– Can I use other flavors of Jell-O?
Feel free to experiment with different flavors of Jell-O to create new variations of this salad.
– Can I add additional fruits to this recipe?
Yes, you can customize this salad by adding fruits like pears, apples, or grapes for extra freshness.
After enjoying Grandma’s Cranberry Salad, expect a burst of flavors in every bite. The tangy cranberries, sweet pineapple, and crunchy pecans offer a delightful contrast of textures. The vibrant red color of the salad adds a festive touch to your table, enhancing the overall dining experience with a blend of traditional and unique flavors.
Grandma's Cranberry Salad
Ingredients
- Cherry Jell-O (3 oz box)
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup drained crushed pineapple
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 2 cups ground cranberries
- orange
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Boil a cup of water and dissolve the cherry Jell-O in a 9x13-inch pan. Add sugar, lemon juice, and pineapple juice, stirring until well dissolved.
- Add the drained crushed pineapple, ground cranberries, orange, and chopped pecans. Mix well and chill the salad overnight.
- Grandma's tip: Chop pecans before blending. You can use a blender or food processor to chop cranberries and oranges for easy preparation.