Creamy Cottage Cheese and Fruit Delight
This delightful and refreshing fruit salad features a perfect blend of creamy cottage cheese and vibrant fruits, subtly sweetened with raspberry gelatin. This dish is an ideal accompaniment to light proteins like chicken or pork or can be savored as a delightful standalone dessert. Its easy preparation makes it a favorite among both adults and children, and the addition of crunchy nuts adds an exciting textural contrast. Be sure to allow adequate chilling time for a chilled, refreshing experience.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
small curd cottage cheese
16 ounces (none)
raspberry Jello gelatin
3 ounces (dry mix)
Cool Whip
8 ounces (none)
fruit cocktail or any canned fruit
15 ounces (drained)
walnuts or pecans
1/2 cup (chopped, optional)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the small curd cottage cheese with the dry raspberry Jello gelatin, stirring until the gelatin is evenly distributed throughout the cottage cheese.
2
Gently fold in the Cool Whip, blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3
Add the drained fruit cocktail or your choice of canned fruit to the mixture, stirring gently to ensure the fruit is evenly distributed.
4
If using, stir in the chopped walnuts or pecans, making sure they are well incorporated.
5
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set.
6
Serve chilled, stirring lightly before serving to refresh the mixture.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cottage Cheese and Fruit Delight?
It is a refreshing and creamy fruit salad that combines cottage cheese, raspberry gelatin, whipped topping, and fruit cocktail.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include small curd cottage cheese, raspberry Jello gelatin, Cool Whip, canned fruit cocktail, and optional walnuts or pecans.
Do I need to prepare the Jello before adding it?
No, you should use the dry raspberry Jello gelatin mix directly from the box.
What type of cottage cheese is recommended?
Small curd cottage cheese is recommended for the best texture in this salad.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
How long does the salad need to chill?
The salad should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving.
Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
Yes, while raspberry is traditional, you can substitute other flavors like strawberry, orange, or lime.
Should the canned fruit be drained?
Yes, ensure the fruit cocktail or canned fruit is well-drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Are nuts required in this recipe?
No, nuts like walnuts or pecans are optional and added for extra crunch.
Is this recipe considered a dessert or a side dish?
It can be served as both a light dessert or a refreshing side dish for proteins like chicken or pork.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, though Cool Whip provides a specific stable texture that holds up well in refrigerated salads.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in a covered container or bowl with plastic wrap in the refrigerator.
How long will this salad stay fresh in the fridge?
When properly stored, it will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze Creamy Cottage Cheese and Fruit Delight?
Freezing is not recommended as it will significantly change the texture of the cottage cheese and fruit.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, its sweet flavor and colorful appearance make it a favorite among children.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit, but canned fruit is convenient and often softer for this specific texture.
Can I use sugar-free gelatin?
Yes, sugar-free gelatin works well in this recipe as a lower-calorie alternative.
What is the preparation time?
The actual preparation takes less than 10 minutes, plus the 3-hour chilling time.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is a completely no-bake recipe that requires no heat.
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese can be used, though the final result may be slightly less creamy.
Do I need a mixer to combine the ingredients?
No, a large mixing bowl and a spoon or spatula for folding are sufficient.
Can I add marshmallows to this salad?
Yes, mini marshmallows are a common and delicious addition to this type of fruit salad.
How should I serve the salad?
Serve it chilled and give it a light stir right before serving to refresh the mixture.
What makes this salad 'creamy'?
The combination of cottage cheese and whipped topping creates the signature creamy texture.
Is this dish suitable for potlucks?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.
Can I use large curd cottage cheese?
You can, but the texture will be chunkier and may not blend as smoothly with the other ingredients.
Why is chilling important?
Chilling allows the gelatin to fully hydrate and the flavors to meld together properly.
Can I add different types of nuts?
Yes, walnuts and pecans are standard, but sliced almonds or crushed peanuts can also work.
What fruit works best if I don't use fruit cocktail?
Mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, or sliced peaches are excellent substitutes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most standard versions of these ingredients are gluten-free, but you should always check the labels on your specific brands.