Cranberry-Walnut Salad Recipe ๐ฅ
Overview:
Indulge in the delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors with this Cranberry-Walnut Salad recipe. Perfect for a refreshing side dish or a light meal, this salad is bursting with freshness and texture. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cranberries
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup crushed pineapple
- 1 orange, peeled and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups celery, chopped
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by preparing the gelatin mixture. In a medium mixing bowl, pour 1/2 cup of water and sprinkle the gelatin on top. Set aside to soften. |
| 2 | In a small saucepan, combine the remaining water and sugar. Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved. |
| 3 | Once the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat. Pour the hot sugar water into the bowl with the gelatin mixture. Stir well to ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved and incorporated. |
| 4 | Transfer the bowl to the refrigerator and allow the mixture to chill for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, or until it begins to set. It should have a slightly thickened consistency. |
| 5 | While the gelatin mixture is chilling, prepare the remaining ingredients. Chop the cranberries, orange, celery, and walnuts as specified in the ingredient list. |
| 6 | Once the gelatin mixture has started to set, remove it from the refrigerator. Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, crushed pineapple, chopped orange, chopped celery, and chopped walnuts. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed and coated with the gelatin mixture. |
| 7 | Pour the salad mixture into a mold or serving dish of your choice. Smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create an even surface. |
| 8 | Return the salad to the refrigerator and chill until firm. This will typically take at least 1-2 hours, but you can leave it longer for a firmer texture. |
| 9 | Once the salad is fully set, remove it from the refrigerator and serve chilled. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every bite! |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 169.6 per serving
- Fat Content: 4.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 13.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 32.4g
- Fiber Content: 2.4g
- Sugar Content: 28.8g
- Protein Content: 1.6g
Serving Suggestions:
This Cranberry-Walnut Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside roasted turkey or chicken for a festive holiday meal. It also makes a delicious addition to brunch spreads or potluck gatherings. For a complete meal, enjoy the salad atop a bed of fresh greens or mixed with cooked quinoa for added protein and fiber. However you choose to serve it, this salad is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends!
Storage:
Store any leftovers of this Cranberry-Walnut Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2-3 days, although the texture may soften slightly over time. Before serving leftovers, give the salad a quick stir to redistribute the ingredients and refresh the flavors. Avoid freezing the salad, as the texture and appearance may be compromised upon thawing.
Tips:
- For added sweetness, you can sprinkle a little extra sugar over the cranberries before folding them into the salad mixture.
- Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Additions such as diced apples, dried cranberries, or pomegranate arils can enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
- To save time, you can prepare the gelatin mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the salad.
- If you prefer a more pronounced citrus flavor, increase the amount of lemon juice or add some grated lemon zest to the salad mixture.
- Garnish the finished salad with a sprinkle of chopped fresh mint or parsley for a pop of color and an extra burst of freshness.
Conclusion:
With its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and satisfying crunch, this Cranberry-Walnut Salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a festive holiday treat, this salad is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with every mouthful of this delicious dish!
