Mandarin Orange & Pineapple Salad Recipe ๐๐ฅฅ
Overview:
This delightful Mandarin Orange & Pineapple Salad is a cherished family favorite, lovingly passed down through generations. Perfect for a light dessert or a refreshing addition to any luncheon spread, this salad combines the tropical flavors of mandarin oranges and pineapple with creamy cottage cheese and the sweet indulgence of Cool Whip. Topped with a crunchy blend of pecans and coconut, it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Best of all, it requires minimal effort to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. With its vibrant colors and irresistible taste, this salad is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (chill time)
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Serving: NaN (varies based on portion size)
Ingredients:
- 1 can (approx. 15 oz) mandarin oranges
- 1 can (approx. 15 oz) pineapple chunks
- 2 cups large curd cottage cheese
- 1 container Cool Whip
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package orange gelatin
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
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Combine Fruits and Cottage Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the mandarin oranges, drained pineapple chunks, large curd cottage cheese, Cool Whip, and vanilla extract. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Incorporate Gelatin:
- Sprinkle the orange gelatin powder over the fruit and cottage cheese mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the gelatin is evenly incorporated throughout the salad.
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Assemble the Salad:
- Transfer the mixture into a 13x9x2-inch dish, spreading it out evenly to create a smooth surface.
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Add Crunchy Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans and shredded coconut. Sprinkle this crunchy topping over the surface of the salad, covering it evenly.
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Chill:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the gelatin to set, resulting in a deliciously refreshing salad with the perfect texture.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once properly chilled, remove the salad from the refrigerator and uncover. Serve it as a delightful dessert or a scrumptious side dish at your next gathering. The creamy texture of the cottage cheese and Cool Whip, combined with the juicy sweetness of the fruits and the satisfying crunch of the pecans and coconut, will leave everyone craving for more!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 417.9
- Fat Content: 16.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 10.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 10.5mg
- Sodium Content: 427mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 58.7g
- Fiber Content: 2.1g
- Sugar Content: 52.7g
- Protein Content: 12.7g
Keywords:
Lunch/Snacks, Pineapple, Tropical Fruits, Fruit, Nuts, Potluck, Weeknight, No Cook, Refrigerator, Easy
Tips and Variations:
- Add a Zesty Twist: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice to the salad mixture. The citrusy kick will elevate the taste and brighten up the dish.
- Experiment with Nut Varieties: Feel free to swap out the pecans for your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a different flavor profile and texture.
- Make it Vegan: To make this salad vegan-friendly, substitute the cottage cheese and Cool Whip with dairy-free alternatives such as vegan yogurt and whipped coconut cream.
- Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle some additional shredded coconut and a few mandarin orange slices on top of the salad just before serving for an extra touch of visual appeal.
Conclusion:
With its irresistible combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, this Mandarin Orange & Pineapple Salad is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together with friends or simply craving a refreshing treat, this salad is sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, whip up a batch today and delight your taste buds with this tropical sensation!
