Creamy Jello-O Waldorf Salad Recipe
This Creamy Jello-O Waldorf Salad is the perfect refreshing dessert or side dish for your summer gatherings. With a tangy lime Jell-O base paired with smooth lemon pudding and complemented by crunchy apples and walnuts, this delightful salad is sure to impress your guests. The dish combines familiar ingredients to create a unique, creamy texture that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a family get-together or a larger event, this is a crowd-pleaser that can easily be made in advance.
Total Time: 1 Hour 40 Minutes
Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Cook Time: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
Servings: 18
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lime Jell-O gelatin | 1 package |
| Boiling water | 2 cups |
| Cold water | 1 1/4 cups |
| Instant lemon pudding | 1 package |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Apples (diced) | 2 medium-sized |
| Walnuts (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 99.9 |
| Fat | 3.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 3.8 mg |
| Sodium | 121.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 16.7 g |
| Fiber | 0.6 g |
| Sugar | 9.7 g |
| Protein | 2.2 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Jell-O:
In a medium-sized bowl, dissolve the lime Jell-O gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Once the gelatin is fully dissolved, add 1 1/4 cups of cold water and stir to combine. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and allow the gelatin to chill for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until itβs almost set (it should be firm but not fully set). -
-
Prepare the Lemon Pudding:
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the instant lemon pudding according to the package instructions. This typically involves mixing the pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk. Stir it until it thickens, then refrigerate for 5 minutes to let it set and become firm. -
Combine Jell-O and Pudding:
Once both the gelatin and pudding have set, carefully combine the pudding with the partially set Jell-O. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes, ensuring that the two components are well blended and smooth. -
Add Apples and Walnuts:
Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts. These add a delicious crunch and texture that balances the creaminess of the Jell-O and pudding mixture. -
Set the Salad:
Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch glass baking dish, large serving bowl, or mold of your choice. Spread the mixture evenly and smooth the top. Place the dish back into the refrigerator and allow the salad to chill for at least 2 hours, or until it has fully set. -
Serve and Garnish:
Once the salad is set, itβs ready to serve! You can enjoy it as-is, or for extra flavor and richness, top each serving with a dollop of Cool Whip or mayonnaise, depending on your preference.
Tips for Success
- Variation: If you’re short on time, you can use a can of lemon pudding instead of the prepared instant pudding. Simply stir it with milk and proceed as directed in the recipe.
- Crunch Factor: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, feel free to substitute them with other nuts like pecans or almonds. You could even add some dried fruit for extra sweetness.
- Make Ahead: This salad is ideal for preparing the night before your event. Just make sure to let it chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Jell-O Waldorf Salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Its light, fruity flavor and creamy texture are guaranteed to delight your taste buds, while the combination of lime Jell-O, lemon pudding, apples, and walnuts makes this dessert or side dish a standout at any summer meal. Perfect for parties, picnics, or casual get-togethers, this recipe brings a nostalgic yet refreshing twist to the table.
Whether you serve it as a light dessert or a refreshing side dish, this Jell-O salad is sure to become a favorite. And with its simple ingredients and minimal prep time, itβs an easy recipe to whip up for any occasion!
