Amish Dry Lime Gelatin Salad / Dessert (Jello)

🍋🥗 Amish Dry Lime Gelatin Salad / Dessert (Jello) 🥗🍋

What is it?
Amish Dry Lime Gelatin Salad, often simply referred to as “Lime Jello Salad,” is a classic American dessert or side dish with a delightful mix of sweet and tart flavors. It’s a favorite at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings, especially in the Midwest and among Amish communities.

History:
The origins of this dish can be traced back to the mid-20th century when gelatin-based salads and desserts became popular in American cuisine. The Amish, known for their simple and traditional cooking, embraced this trend and put their own spin on it. It’s become a beloved classic in Amish communities and beyond.

Components:

• Lime Gelatin: The main ingredient, giving the dish its characteristic lime flavor and wobbly texture.
• Crushed Pineapple: Adds sweetness and a tropical twist.
• Miniature Marshmallows: Provide a soft, chewy texture.
• Cottage Cheese or Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and a bit of tang.
• Whipped Topping (e.g., Cool Whip): Gives a light and airy texture.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Lime Gelatin: Dissolve a package of lime-flavored gelatin in hot water according to the package instructions. Typically, it’s around 2 cups of boiling water.

2. Chill the Gelatin: Allow the dissolved gelatin to cool to room temperature.

3. Mix in Crushed Pineapple: Once the gelatin has cooled but hasn’t set, gently fold in a can of crushed pineapple (with the juice). Make sure it’s well incorporated.

4. Add Miniature Marshmallows: Stir in a generous portion of miniature marshmallows. The exact amount depends on your preference, but a cup or more is typical.

5. Incorporate Cottage or Cream Cheese: If you’re using cottage cheese, blend it until smooth. If using cream cheese, make sure it’s softened. Then, fold it into the gelatin mixture until it’s evenly combined.

6. Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in a tub of whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip) until the mixture is light and fluffy.

7. Chill: Pour the mixture into a glass or plastic dish and refrigerate for several hours or until it’s fully set. This can take 4-6 hours or even overnight.

8. Serve: Once set, slice or scoop the lime gelatin salad into servings and garnish with additional whipped topping or maraschino cherries if desired.

Preparation Time:
The total time required to prepare Amish Dry Lime Gelatin Salad can vary, but it typically takes around 15-20 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix them together. The majority of the time is spent waiting for the salad to set in the refrigerator, which can take 4-6 hours or more. So, it’s best to plan ahead if you’re making this for a special occasion.

Enjoy this delightful, nostalgic dessert/side dish! 🍋🥗😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Amish Dry Lime Gelatin Salad:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 160-200 calories per serving (varies based on ingredients and portion size)
• Total Fat: 5-10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 3-5 grams
• Cholesterol: 5-10 milligrams
• Sodium: 100-200 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 0 grams
• Sugars: 20-30 grams
• Protein: 2-4 grams

Health Information:

1. Calories: This dessert, while delicious, can be relatively high in calories, primarily due to the whipped topping, marshmallows, and any added sugar.

2. Total Fat: The fat content comes from the whipped topping and cream cheese or cottage cheese. While it’s not excessively high, it’s essential to consume it in moderation if you’re watching your fat intake.

3. Saturated Fat: Some saturated fat comes from the cream cheese or cottage cheese and whipped topping. Excess saturated fat can contribute to heart health issues, so it’s best to enjoy this dessert in moderation.

4. Cholesterol: The cholesterol content is relatively low, primarily from the dairy ingredients.

5. Sodium: Sodium levels can vary based on the brands of ingredients used. It’s generally not excessively high but still worth considering if you have dietary restrictions or high blood pressure.

6. Total Carbohydrates: The main source of carbohydrates in this dessert is sugar, primarily from the gelatin, whipped topping, and any added sugar. It’s a high-carb dessert.

7. Dietary Fiber: This dessert typically lacks dietary fiber as it doesn’t contain significant amounts of fruits or vegetables.

8. Protein: While there is some protein from the dairy ingredients, this dessert is not a significant source of protein.

Health Considerations:

• Lime Jello Salad is a treat rather than a health food. It’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its sugar and fat content.
• If you’re concerned about the nutrition profile, you can make adjustments like using reduced-fat or sugar-free versions of some ingredients.
• It’s a popular dish for special occasions, but it’s wise to balance it with a meal that includes more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to ensure a balanced diet.

Remember that specific nutritional values can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used, so it’s a good idea to check product labels or use a nutrition calculator for precise information.