Prepare to transport your taste buds to a nostalgic culinary adventure with this show-stopping Cranberry Orange Salad Mold! This isn't just another boring side dish – it's a vibrant, jiggly masterpiece that combines the tangy punch of cranberries, the bright zest of oranges, and the rich crunch of pecans in a dessert that's part salad, part dessert, and 100% delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or when you want to impress your guests with a retro classic that never goes out of style!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package (3 oz) orange gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped oranges
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 package (3 oz) of orange gelatin, 1 cup of boiling water, 1 cup of cranberry sauce, 1/2 cup of chopped oranges, 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, and 1/2 cup of whipped cream.
- In a mixing bowl, pour the 1 cup of boiling water over the orange gelatin. Stir the mixture well until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Add the 1 cup of cranberry sauce to the dissolved gelatin. Mix thoroughly until the cranberry sauce is fully incorporated into the gelatin mixture.
- Next, gently fold in the 1/2 cup of chopped oranges and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans into the gelatin and cranberry mixture. Ensure that the fruit and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Once everything is combined, pour the mixture into a mold or a decorative serving dish. Smooth the top with a spatula if necessary.
- Refrigerate the mold for at least 2-4 hours, or until it is firm and set. If you're short on time, a minimum of 1 hour in the refrigerator may suffice, but longer is better for a firmer texture.
- When ready to serve, carefully unmold the salad onto a serving platter. If using a mold, you may need to dip the bottom of the mold in warm water for a few seconds to help release the salad.
- Top the salad with the 1/2 cup of whipped cream, spreading it evenly over the surface for a creamy finish. Optionally, you can garnish with additional chopped pecans or orange slices for an attractive presentation.
- Slice the salad into wedges or scoop it out with a spoon to serve. Enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Orange Salad Mold!
Tips
- Chill Out: For the best texture, give your mold plenty of time to set – patience is key! While 1 hour works in a pinch, 4 hours of refrigeration will give you the perfect consistency.
- Mold Magic: Use a decorative mold or a simple glass dish to create a stunning presentation. Pro tip: Lightly coat the mold with non-stick spray for easier removal.
- Whipped Cream Wonder: For extra richness, make your own fresh whipped cream instead of using store-bought. It'll elevate the entire dish!
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to experiment with different nut varieties or add a sprinkle of orange zest on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Make-Ahead Marvel: This dish is perfect for preparing in advance – it actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together. Make it a day before your event for maximum deliciousness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 115kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: mg
