Can I make this salad the day before?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead gives the flavors even more time to blend, and it stays wonderfully fluffy. Just store tightly covered in the fridge.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

If you prefer not to use Cool Whip, you can use homemade whipped cream (whip chilled heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar), but keep in mind you’ll lose a little stability. Whipped topping keeps the salad fluffy for longer.

Will the Jello powder dissolve without making the Jello?

Yes! Mixing the dry Jello right in with the creamy ingredients helps it dissolve perfectly, coloring and flavoring the salad without setting up like gelatin.

Do I have to use cottage cheese?

Cottage cheese is key for the classic creamy texture, but if you really don’t like it, try small curd ricotta or even a thick Greek yogurt. The result will be slightly different, but still delicious!

Creamy Orange Fruit Salad Recipe

Description

This Creamy Orange Fruit Salad is a refreshing, easy-to-make dessert that combines tangy citrus flavors and creamy textures. Featuring succulent mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, cottage cheese, coconut flakes, orange jello, and a fluffy Cool Whip topping, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for parties, potlucks, or a sweet snack any time.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Fruit

20 oz. crushed pineapple, drained very well (1 can)
30 oz. mandarin oranges, drained well (2 cans)

Cream Base

16 oz. cottage cheese
3 oz. orange jello mix (unprepared)
8 oz. Cool Whip

Mix-ins & Garnishes

1/2 cup sweetened coconut flakes
Maraschino cherries, for garnish

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Instructions

Drain the Pineapple: Place the crushed pineapple in a strainer and press out as much juice as possible using a spoon. Let it sit on paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture, ensuring the salad does not become watery.
Drain the Oranges: Strain the mandarin oranges in the same strainer, but do not press down on them. Arrange them on paper towels to remove excess liquid.
Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the orange jello mix, cottage cheese, and sweetened coconut flakes. Stir until evenly mixed.
Add the Fruit: Gently fold the drained crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges into the cottage cheese mixture using a silicone spatula.
Add the Cool Whip: Carefully mix in the Cool Whip until all ingredients are well incorporated and the salad is creamy.
Chill and Serve: Transfer the salad to a large serving bowl or individual bowls. Garnish with maraschino cherries and chill until ready to serve.

Notes

Ensure pineapples and oranges are very well drained to prevent a watery salad.
Garnish just before serving for the freshest appearance.
This salad can be made ahead and chilled for optimal flavor.
Feel free to use light or sugar-free versions of cottage cheese and Cool Whip for a lighter dessert.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 recipe
Calories: 265
Sugar: 34g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 10mg