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Grandma’s Cranberry Salad

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Grandma’s Classic Cranberry Salad

Introduction

Grandma’s Cranberry Salad is a festive, nostalgic dish that brings the holiday spirit to any table. Made with fresh cranberries, tangy oranges, and sweet pineapple, this salad has the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, complemented by the crunch of chopped pecans. This chilled Jell-O-based dish is a cherished family recipe, perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings. Not only is it visually appealing, with its bright red color and pops of orange and green, but it also offers a refreshing flavor profile that pairs well with hearty holiday meals. Follow this simple yet delicious recipe to create a cranberry salad that’s sure to be a hit at your next celebration!

Ingredients for Grandma’s Cranberry Salad

  • 1 package cherry Jell-O (3 oz box)
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup drained crushed pineapple (from an 8 oz can)
  • 1/2 – 1 cup pineapple juice (use the reserved juice from the pineapple and add water to reach desired amount)
  • 1 cup ground cranberries
  • 1 orange, ground (include peel for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped

How to Make Grandma’s Cranberry Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Jell-O Base

  1. Dissolve the Jell-O
    Start by boiling 1 cup of water. In a 9×13-inch pan, dissolve the cherry Jell-O in the hot water, stirring until completely mixed.
  2. Add Sugar, Lemon Juice, and Pineapple Juice
    Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and pineapple juice (from the reserved pineapple can juice, plus water to reach 1/2 – 1 cup as needed). Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Step 2: Add the Fruit and Nuts

  1. Incorporate Pineapple, Cranberries, and Orange
    Add the drained crushed pineapple, ground cranberries, and ground orange (including some of the peel for extra zest). Stir everything together until well combined.
  2. Add Chopped Pecans
    Finally, fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Chill the Salad

  1. Refrigerate Overnight
    Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the salad chill overnight. This allows the Jell-O to set completely and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cranberry Salad

  • Prep the Pecans First
    Chop the pecans before using your food processor or blender for the cranberries and orange. This will save time and prevent your blender from getting sticky with the fruits.
  • Use Fresh Cranberries and Orange
    Fresh cranberries and a whole orange (including some of the peel) give the salad a distinct, bright flavor. If desired, you can add extra orange zest for an even more vibrant taste.
  • Customize the Texture
    If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the cranberries and orange more finely. For a chunkier salad, pulse lightly so the fruit pieces remain larger.
  • Experiment with Nuts
    Pecans add a nice crunch and flavor, but you can substitute walnuts if preferred. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts.
  • Sweetness Adjustment
    Taste the mixture before chilling. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, feel free to add a little extra sugar or a splash of orange juice.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O?
Yes! While cherry Jell-O is traditional, you can use raspberry or cranberry Jell-O if preferred. Both flavors pair wonderfully with the cranberry and orange in this salad.

Q2: How should I grind the cranberries and orange?
A food processor or blender works best to grind the cranberries and orange. You want a finely chopped consistency, but be careful not to puree the mixture. Pulse until the desired texture is achieved.

Q3: Can I make this salad without nuts?
Yes, you can omit the pecans if you prefer a nut-free salad. The salad will still be delicious and full of flavor without the added crunch.

Q4: How long can I store this cranberry salad?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors deepen after sitting for a day or two.

Q5: Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used if fresh ones are not available. Thaw the cranberries completely before grinding them to ensure the salad has the right consistency.

Q6: What if my Jell-O doesn’t set properly?
If your Jell-O mixture doesn’t set, it may be due to insufficient chilling time or too much liquid. Ensure you measure the pineapple juice accurately and chill the salad overnight to give it enough time to set completely.

Q7: How can I make this salad even more festive?
For a festive touch, garnish the top of the cranberry salad with a sprinkle of chopped pecans, a few whole cranberries, and some fresh orange zest. It will add color and an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Cranberry Salad is a classic recipe that brings a splash of color and a burst of fresh flavor to the holiday table. With its combination of tangy cranberries, sweet pineapple, and zesty orange, this chilled salad is a treat that beautifully balances flavors and textures. The crunchy pecans add a wonderful contrast to the creamy, fruity Jell-O mixture, making each bite deliciously satisfying. Simple to prepare, yet impressive in both taste and presentation, this salad is a cherished holiday staple you’ll want to make year after year. Enjoy!

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