Emerald Green Salad
This delightful and easy-to-make Emerald Green Salad is a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a simple treat to brighten up any occasion. Featuring marshmallows, lime Jell-O, cream cheese, pineapple, and Cool Whip, this colorful salad offers a balance of sweetness and creaminess with a bit of crunch from the pecans. The vivid green hue makes it a standout on any dessert table, and its simple ingredients make it a beginner-friendly recipe. With a preparation time of only 3 hours and 5 minutes, this dish is a wonderful addition to any meal.
Recipe Details
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Southwestern U.S.
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Prep Time: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: Approx. 16 servings
- Calories per Serving: 376.9 kcal
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Marshmallows | 16 oz |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Lime Jell-O gelatin | 1 package |
| Cream Cheese | 1 package |
| Crushed Pineapple | 1 can (8 oz) |
| Cool Whip | 1 container (8 oz) |
| Pecans | 1/2 cup (chopped) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 376.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 21.3 mg |
| Sodium | 146.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 41.6 g |
| Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugars | 32 g |
| Protein | 5.8 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Marshmallow Base:
Start by placing the marshmallows and milk in the top of a double boiler. Heat over medium heat until the marshmallows are completely melted, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Once melted, add the lime Jell-O gelatin mix and stir until fully dissolved. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature. The gelatin will thicken slightly as it cools, creating a smooth, sweet base for your salad. -
-
Blend Cream Cheese and Pineapple:
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Once it has reached a soft and airy texture, add the crushed pineapple (including its juice) and mix until fully incorporated. This will add a refreshing tang to the dessert, balancing the sweetness of the marshmallows and Jell-O. -
Combine the Mixtures:
Once the marshmallow mixture has cooled, gently stir it into the cream cheese-pineapple blend. Mix until smooth and creamy. The lime Jell-O and marshmallow mixture should blend well with the cream cheese, creating a fluffy, light texture. -
Fold in Cool Whip and Pecans:
Now, fold in the Cool Whip and chopped pecans. The Cool Whip gives the salad its airy, whipped texture, while the pecans add a delightful crunch. Stir gently to combine without deflating the mixture. -
Chill and Serve:
Transfer the mixture into a serving dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until it firms up completely. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, your Emerald Green Salad is ready to be served. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive potlucks, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to make: This recipe requires minimal cooking, making it a great option for beginner cooks or those looking for a quick dessert to prepare.
- Kid-friendly: The sweet and creamy texture, along with the fun green color, makes this dessert a hit with kids.
- Perfect for Potlucks: The large serving size and its ability to be prepared in advance make it an ideal dish for potluck gatherings.
- Refreshing: The combination of tangy cream cheese, sweet pineapple, and lime Jell-O creates a light and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for warmer months.
This Emerald Green Salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with its vibrant color. Simple, inexpensive, and full of flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again for all your dessert needs. Enjoy it at your next gathering or as a special treat for your family!
