Cranberry Fluff Salad: A Sweet and Tangy Holiday Delight
Looking for a refreshing and festive dish to brighten up your holiday table? Look no further than Cranberry Fluff Salad! This delightful salad combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the creaminess of whipped topping and the crunch of nuts, making it a perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast. Did you know that this dish not only adds a pop of color to your table but also offers a unique blend of flavors and textures? Let’s explore this easy and delicious recipe that will surely become a holiday favorite.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create your Cranberry Fluff Salad:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz whipped topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Substitution Suggestions:
- Nuts: Use slivered almonds or leave out the nuts for a nut-free version.
- Cream Cheese: Opt for low-fat cream cheese for a lighter alternative.
- Whipped Topping: Substitute with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries and removing any stems or blemished fruit. In a food processor, pulse the cranberries with sugar until finely chopped. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until smooth. Then, gently stir in the chopped cranberries, miniature marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Chill the Salad
Transfer the mixture into a serving bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
Step 5: Serve
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Garnish with additional nuts or a sprinkle of marshmallows if desired. Serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 90mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make your Cranberry Fluff Salad even healthier, consider these modifications:
- Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute to lower the overall sugar content.
- Add Fruit: Incorporate additional fruits like diced apples or mandarin oranges for added nutrition and flavor.
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for extra protein and creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs wonderfully with holiday main dishes like roast turkey or ham. It also makes a great addition to potluck gatherings and family dinners, providing a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overprocessing the Cranberries: Be careful not to puree the cranberries; they should be finely chopped for the right texture.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Allowing the salad to chill is crucial for the flavors to develop and for the salad to set properly.
- Not Draining the Pineapple: Ensure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to avoid a watery salad.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the whipped topping; it is best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
In summary, the Cranberry Fluff Salad is a delightful addition to any holiday spread. With its vibrant colors and sweet-tart flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests and brighten your holiday celebrations. Try this recipe today and share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates!
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance, making it a convenient option for holiday meal prep.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Use vegan cream cheese and whipped topping, and ensure the marshmallows are gelatin-free.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
While fresh cranberries provide a unique tartness, you can substitute dried cranberries for a sweeter flavor; just reduce the sugar accordingly.
Cranberry Fluff Salad
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz whipped topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- Substitution Suggestions:
- Nuts: Use slivered almonds or leave out the nuts for a nut-free version.
- Cream Cheese: Opt for low-fat cream cheese for a lighter alternative.
- Whipped Topping: Substitute with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries and removing any stems or blemished fruit. In a food processor, pulse the cranberries with sugar until finely chopped. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until smooth. Then, gently stir in the chopped cranberries, miniature marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Chill the Salad
Transfer the mixture into a serving bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
Step 5: Serve
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Garnish with additional nuts or a sprinkle of marshmallows if desired. Serve chilled for a refreshing treat.