Holiday Cranberry Pineapple Gelatin Salad Recipe: Christmas Dinner Essential
My grandmother insists this traditional holiday dessert salad must grace our Christmas table every year! This festive Cranberry Pineapple Gelatin Salad combines sweet and tangy flavors, creating the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas celebrations, or any special family gathering.
Classic Holiday Gelatin Salad Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jellied cranberry sauce | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Raspberry or cranberry gelatin mix | 1 package (6 oz) |
| Crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice) | 1 can (20 oz) |
| Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
| Boiling water | 1 cup |
| Cold water | 1/2 cup |
How To Prepare This Traditional Christmas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gelatin powder with 1 cup of boiling water. Stir continuously until the powder completely dissolves, creating a smooth base for your holiday salad.
Step 2: Incorporate Cold Liquids
Add ½ cup cold water along with the reserved pineapple juice (approximately ½ to ¾ cup) to the dissolved gelatin mixture. Stir thoroughly to blend.
Step 3: Blend Cranberry Sauce
Using a fork, break apart the jellied cranberry sauce into smaller pieces. Add these pieces to your gelatin mixture, stirring well until evenly distributed throughout.
Step 4: Add Fruit and Nuts
Fold in the drained crushed pineapple and chopped pecans, ensuring even distribution of all ingredients for the perfect texture in every serving.
Step 5: Refrigerate Until Firm
Transfer the mixture into your preferred serving dish or decorative mold. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or overnight for best results, until completely set.
Step 6: Serve Your Holiday Masterpiece
Once fully chilled and firm, slice into portions and serve cold as a refreshing side dish that complements any holiday meal perfectly.
Why This Recipe Works for Holiday Gatherings
This traditional gelatin salad recipe has remained a beloved Christmas dinner staple for generations. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful texture and flavor profile that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, and other holiday main courses.
Perfect for potlucks, Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas parties, or any festive occasion, this easy-to-make dessert salad can be prepared ahead of time, making holiday meal planning stress-free. The vibrant red color adds beautiful visual appeal to your holiday table presentation.
Make this family-favorite recipe part of your holiday tradition and watch it become a requested dish year after year!