Christmas Cranberry Salad
Bring festive color and a burst of tangy-sweet flavor to your holiday table with this delightful Christmas Cranberry Salad. It’s the perfect combination of refreshing fruit, crunchy texture, and bright holiday cheer—ideal for pairing with any rich holiday meal.
Ingredients
- 1 package (6 oz) cherry gelatin
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 can (14 oz) whole cranberry sauce
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 crisp apple, diced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- Fresh mint leaves and whole cranberries (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Dissolve the Gelatin
In a large bowl, dissolve the cherry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir thoroughly until the gelatin is completely dissolved. - Add Liquids and Cranberries
Stir in 1 cup of cold water and 1 can (14 oz) of whole cranberry sauce. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. - Chill the Mixture
Refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until the gelatin reaches a slightly thickened, syrupy consistency. - Prepare the Add-Ins
While the gelatin chills, chop celery, apple, and walnuts. Drain the crushed pineapple and set all ingredients aside. - Fold in the Fruits and Nuts
Once the gelatin has partially set, gently fold in the chopped celery, apple, walnuts, and pineapple. Add the orange zest and orange juice for a bright, citrusy touch. - Mold and Set
Pour the mixture into a decorative mold or serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely firm. For best results, chill overnight. - Garnish and Serve
Before serving, unmold the salad if desired and garnish with fresh mint leaves and a few whole cranberries for a festive presentation. - Serving Tip
This make-ahead salad is a refreshing complement to hearty dishes like roast turkey, ham, or stuffing. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet fruit, and crunchy nuts creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that capture the spirit of the holidays.
