Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad comes together effortlessly.
Versatile: It can serve as a side dish or a light dessert, making it suitable for various occasions.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The salad requires several hours to set, making it perfect for preparing in advance of gatherings.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different gelatin flavors or add-ins like nuts or marshmallows to suit your taste.

Ingredients

1 (6-ounce) package lemon-flavored gelatin
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
4 large carrots, grated

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

Prepare the Gelatin: In a large bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
Add Pineapple: Stir in the entire can of undrained crushed pineapple.
Chill Until Thickened: Refrigerate the mixture for about 1 hour, or until it thickens to the consistency of unbeaten egg whites.
Incorporate Carrots: Fold in the grated carrots until well combined.
Set the Salad: Pour the mixture into a serving dish or mold. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation Time: Active preparation takes about 15 minutes.
Chill Time: Allow at least 5 hours for the salad to set properly.

Variations

Gelatin Flavors: While lemon is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like orange or lime for a unique twist.
Add-ins: Consider folding in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or mini marshmallows for added texture and sweetness.
Layered Version: Create a layered effect by preparing the salad in stages, allowing each layer to set before adding the next.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the salad refrigerated in an airtight container. It will maintain its best quality for up to 3 days.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the gelatin may not maintain its texture once thawed.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

It’s best to use canned crushed pineapple for this recipe. Fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can prevent the gelatin from setting properly.

2. How can I make this salad vegetarian?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, as it contains no meat products.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free.

4. Can I use sugar-free gelatin?

Yes, you can substitute sugar-free gelatin if you’re looking to reduce sugar intake.

5. How do I unmold the salad?

To unmold, dip the bottom of the mold in hot water for about 10 seconds. Place a serving plate over the mold, invert, and gently lift the mold off.

6. Can I add whipped cream to the salad?

Yes, folding in whipped cream can add a creamy texture. However, it will change the traditional consistency of the salad.

7. How long does the salad need to set?

Allow the salad to set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

8. Can I use a different type of nut?

Certainly! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even slivered almonds can be used as alternatives.

9. How should I serve the salad?

Serve chilled, directly from the refrigerator. If unmolded, place on a serving platter for a decorative touch.

10. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it a day before your event and keep it refrigerated until serving.

Conclusion

Carrot Pineapple Jello Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, combining the sweetness of pineapple, the freshness of grated carrots, and the tanginess of lemon gelatin. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect addition to any gathering, offering a refreshing option that complements a variety of dishes.

Carrot Pineapple Jello Salad

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Carrot Pineapple Jello Salad is a simple, refreshing dessert or side dish made with lemon gelatin, sweet pineapple, and grated carrots. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s the perfect make-ahead dish for any occasion!

Ingredients

1 (6-ounce) package lemon-flavored gelatin

1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained

4 large carrots, grated

For Optional Add-ins:

Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds)

Mini marshmallows

Whipped cream (optional)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
Stir in the entire can of undrained crushed pineapple.
Refrigerate the mixture for about 1 hour, or until it thickens to the consistency of unbeaten egg whites.
Fold in the grated carrots until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a serving dish or mold. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Notes

You can experiment with different gelatin flavors, such as orange or lime, for a unique twist.

If you want extra sweetness and texture, add chopped nuts or mini marshmallows.

If you’d like a layered version, allow each layer to set before adding the next.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American