Jello salad

Jello Salad

A cranberry congealed salad

Jello salad, also known as congealed salad or gelatin salad, is a salad made with flavored gelatin, fruit, and sometimes grated carrots or other vegetables. Other ingredients may include cottage cheese, cream cheese, marshmallows, nuts, or pretzels.

History

Jello salads became popular in the United States in the early to mid-20th century, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s. The popularity of these salads was partly due to the convenience of gelatin as a quick-setting dessert or side dish, as well as the novelty of the brightly colored and molded presentations.

Preparation

Jello salads are typically prepared by dissolving flavored gelatin in hot water, then adding cold water or ice to cool the mixture. Once the gelatin begins to thicken, various ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, or dairy products are folded in. The mixture is then poured into a mold and refrigerated until set.

Common Ingredients

• Gelatin
• Fruit (e.g., pineapple, strawberries, bananas)
• Vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery)
• Dairy products (e.g., cottage cheese, cream cheese)
• Nuts
• Marshmallows

Variations

There are many variations of Jello salad, often named after the primary fruit or flavor used. Some popular types include:

• Cranberry Jello Salad: Made with cranberry-flavored gelatin and often includes whole cranberries or cranberry sauce.
• Lime Jello Salad: Typically includes lime-flavored gelatin, cottage cheese, and crushed pineapple.
• Orange Jello Salad: Often made with mandarin oranges and whipped topping.

Cultural Significance

Jello salads are often associated with American cuisine and are a staple at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family reunions. They are particularly popular in the Midwestern United States, where they are sometimes humorously referred to as "Lutheran church basement food."

Related Pages

• Gelatin dessert
• Aspic
• Fruit salad
• Ambrosia (fruit salad)