Frequently Asked Questions
What is Refreshing Lemon Pineapple Gelatin Salad?
It is a zesty and sweet dessert salad made with lemon gelatin, lemon pudding, crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped topping.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 12 to 16 servings, depending on the portion size.
What size pan is needed for this gelatin salad?
You should use a 9x13 inch pan to allow the mixture to spread evenly and set properly.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 100 calories.
Is this a no-bake dessert?
Yes, this is a completely no-bake recipe that only requires refrigeration to set.
How long does the salad need to chill in the refrigerator?
The salad needs to refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until it is fully set.
Do I need to drain the crushed pineapple?
No, you should include the juice from the two 16-ounce cans of crushed pineapple in the mixture.
What does 'egg-white consistency' mean for the gelatin?
It refers to the stage where the gelatin has cooled and thickened slightly so it is viscous and syrupy, but not yet solid.
Can I use regular lemon gelatin instead of sugar-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular lemon gelatin for the sugar-free version, though it will increase the sugar and calorie content.
What type of pudding is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for two 3.5-ounce packages of Jell-O Instant Lemon Pudding mix.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
It is recommended to use canned pineapple because fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can prevent gelatin from setting properly.
Is this salad low in fat?
Yes, with only 0.25g of fat per serving, this is a very low-fat dessert option.
How much sugar is in each serving?
There are approximately 3 grams of sugar per serving.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, it is perfect for making the day before an event as it needs several hours to chill and set.
What is the best way to fold in the Cool Whip?
Gently fold it in using a spatula until the mixture is uniform and no white streaks remain.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I substitute lime gelatin for lemon?
Yes, using lime gelatin and lime pudding would create a 'Lemon-Lime' variation of the salad.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Traditional gelatin is derived from animal products, so it is not considered strictly vegetarian.
Can I add nuts to this salad?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts are common additions that provide a nice crunchy texture.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides approximately 1 gram of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
The fiber content for this specific recipe is negligible.
Can I use large marshmallows if I don't have miniature ones?
It is best to use miniature marshmallows for even distribution, but you can cut large ones into smaller pieces if necessary.
What occasions is this salad best for?
It's an excellent choice for family reunions, picnics, holiday dinners, and summer parties.
Is the gelatin prepared with boiling water?
Yes, you should follow the package instructions which typically involve dissolving the powder in boiling water.
Can I use a different brand than Jell-O?
Yes, any brand of lemon gelatin and instant lemon pudding will work as long as the package sizes are similar.
Can I freeze this gelatin salad?
Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the gelatin and cause the whipped topping to separate upon thawing.
How many cans of pineapple are required?
The recipe requires two 16-ounce cans of crushed pineapple.
Is this a light dessert?
Yes, because it uses sugar-free gelatin and is relatively low in calories, it is considered a light dessert.
Can I add mandarin oranges to this?
Yes, adding drained mandarin oranges is a popular variation that complements the lemon and pineapple flavors.