Refreshing Mandarin Orange Jello Delight
Indulge in this vibrant and refreshing Mandarin Orange Jello Delight, a delightful dessert that masquerades as a side salad. This colorful dish combines fluffy Cool Whip, creamy cottage cheese, and luscious fruit, creating a symphony of flavors that will have your family coming back for seconds. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and warm summer days, this dish is not only a hit with kids but also a nostalgic favorite for adults. Easy to prepare and utterly refreshing, this dessert will quickly become a staple in your home.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cool Whip Free
8 ounces (thawed)
Low fat cottage cheese
24 ounces
Crushed pineapple
20 ounces (drained)
Mandarin oranges
22 ounces (2 (11 ounce) cans, drained)
Sugar-free orange gelatin
10 ounces (2 (5/8 ounce) boxes)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar-free orange gelatin and low fat cottage cheese. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
2
Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges. Be careful not to break up the fruit too much.
3
Once the fruit is mixed in, carefully fold in the thawed Cool Whip until everything is well blended and creamy.
4
Transfer the mixture into a serving dish or individual cups, cover, and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow it to set slightly.
5
Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful sweet treat!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Refreshing Mandarin Orange Jello Delight?
It is a vibrant and refreshing dessert or side salad made with orange gelatin, cottage cheese, whipped topping, and fruit.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The ingredients include Cool Whip Free, low fat cottage cheese, crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, and sugar-free orange gelatin.
How many ingredients are needed?
This simple recipe requires only 5 ingredients.
Do I need to cook the gelatin first?
No, you stir the dry gelatin powder directly into the cottage cheese without adding water or boiling it.
Can I use regular cottage cheese instead of low fat?
Yes, regular cottage cheese can be used, although low fat is suggested for a lighter version.
How should the fruit be prepared?
Both the crushed pineapple and the mandarin oranges should be thoroughly drained before adding them to the mixture.
What size cans of mandarin oranges are required?
The recipe calls for two 11-ounce cans of mandarin oranges.
How much Cool Whip is used?
The recipe uses one 8-ounce container of thawed Cool Whip Free.
How long does it take to set in the refrigerator?
It should be refrigerated for at least 10 minutes to allow it to set slightly before serving.
Is this a low-fat dessert?
Yes, by using Cool Whip Free and low fat cottage cheese, it is designed to be a lighter treat.
Can I use regular orange gelatin instead of sugar-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular orange gelatin if you do not prefer sugar-free.
What is the best way to mix in the Cool Whip?
Carefully fold in the thawed Cool Whip until the mixture is well blended and creamy to maintain the fluffy texture.
Can I add other ingredients like marshmallows?
Yes, mini marshmallows are a common addition that pairs well with the creamy texture of this salad.
Is this dish suitable for potlucks?
Absolutely, it is a popular choice for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and summer parties.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Mandarin Orange Jello Delight?
Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the cottage cheese and fruit once thawed.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Canned pineapple is recommended because fresh pineapple contains enzymes that may prevent gelatin from setting properly.
What is the first step in making this recipe?
The first step is to combine the sugar-free orange gelatin and low fat cottage cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, its sweet flavor and bright colors make it a favorite among children.
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
While orange is traditional, you can try strawberry or lime gelatin for a different flavor profile.
How many cans of pineapple do I need?
The recipe calls for 20 ounces of crushed pineapple, which is typically one standard large can.
What kind of texture does this salad have?
It has a fluffy, creamy, and slightly chunky texture thanks to the whipped topping and fruit pieces.
Do I need an electric mixer?
No, a large mixing bowl and a spoon or spatula are sufficient for stirring and folding the ingredients.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be added if you desire a bit of crunch.
How long will this stay fresh in the fridge?
It is best when consumed within 2 to 3 days of preparation.
Should I serve this warm or cold?
This dish should always be served chilled.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd at a party.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your specific brands of gelatin and whipped topping.
What is the total weight of the cottage cheese needed?
The recipe requires 24 ounces of low fat cottage cheese.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
While it will change the traditional texture, some people use Greek yogurt as a substitute for cottage cheese.