Jello Fruit Salad with Strawberries, Peaches, Mandarins, Cool Whip, and Mozzarella Recipe
Introduction
Jello Fruit Salad is a colorful and refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh and canned fruits with the light, creamy texture of cool whip and jello. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want a simple, fruity treat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb strawberries
- 30 oz canned mandarines
- 30 oz canned peaches
- 3.4 oz red jello
- 3.4 oz orange jello
- 8 oz cool whip
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated (preferably on large holes)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the jello according to the package instructions, but use only ¾ cup cold water and ¾ cup hot water. Pour into a dish and refrigerate until firm, either overnight or until fully set.
- Step 2: Defrost the cool whip in the refrigerator while the jello sets.
- Step 3: Slice the strawberries into small pieces to your desired size. Grate the mozzarella cheese using large holes for best texture.
- Step 4: Drain the canned peaches and mandarines, then cut them into smaller pieces to match the size of the strawberries.
- Step 5: Once the jello is firm, cut it into ½-inch cubes.
- Step 6: In a large bowl, combine the jello cubes, sliced strawberries, chopped peaches and mandarines, grated mozzarella, and defrosted cool whip. Gently mix everything together until well combined.
Tips & Variations
- For a make-ahead option, dice all fruit and grate cheese separately. Keep cool whip chilled. Mix everything together just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
- Use fresh mandarin segments instead of canned for a brighter, fresher flavor.
- Try substituting mozzarella with mild cheddar for a different creaminess and slight tang.
Storage
Store the fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed the same day it’s made, but leftovers can be kept for up to one day. Stir gently before serving again. Avoid freezing as this will change the texture of the jello and cool whip.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fruit in this salad?
Yes, you can substitute or add fruits like pineapple, grapes, or blueberries to customize the salad to your taste.
Is the mozzarella cheese necessary?
The mozzarella adds a mild, creamy texture that balances the sweetness, but if you prefer, you can omit it or try a different mild cheese.
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Jello Fruit Salad with Strawberries, Peaches, Mandarins, Cool Whip, and Mozzarella Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours (including chilling time overnight)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Jello Fruit Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dessert combining the bright flavors of strawberries, mandarines, and peaches with the refreshing texture of jello and the creaminess of cool whip. Topped with grated mozzarella cheese for a subtle savory contrast, this easy-to-make salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light, fruity treat any day.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 1 lb strawberries
- 30 oz canned mandarines, drained
- 30 oz canned peaches, drained and cut into smaller pieces
Jello
- 3.4 oz red jello mix
- 3.4 oz orange jello mix
- ¾ cup cold water
- ¾ cup hot water
Dairy
- 8 oz cool whip, defrosted
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated (preferably on large holes)
Instructions
- Prepare the Jello: Make each jello flavor according to package instructions but using only ¾ cup cold water and ¾ cup hot water. Pour into separate containers and refrigerate until firm, ideally overnight.
- Defrost Cool Whip: Place the cool whip in the refrigerator to fully defrost ahead of mixing.
- Prepare Fruits and Cheese: Slice strawberries into small pieces to your liking. Drain canned mandarines and peaches, cutting peaches into smaller chunks. Grate the mozzarella cheese using large holes for preferred texture.
- Cut Jello into Cubes: Once the jello is firm, cut it into approximately ½ inch cubes to add texture and presentation appeal.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix together the jello cubes, prepared fruits, grated mozzarella, and defrosted cool whip until well combined.
- Serve or Store: This salad is best enjoyed the day it is made. For make-ahead convenience, prepare and store the fruits, cheese, and cool whip separately, then combine right before serving. Leftovers can be kept refrigerated and enjoyed within one day.
Notes
- Use large holes on the grater for the mozzarella to add a delicate texture and prevent overpowering the salad.
- For best texture, avoid mixing the salad too far in advance as the jello can break down over time.
- This salad is ideal for summertime and festive occasions, offering a colorful and creamy dessert option.
- Feel free to adjust fruit quantities based on availability or preferences.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (jello preparation, excluding chilling time)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: jello fruit salad, strawberry fruit salad, cool whip salad, easy fruit dessert, refrigerated salad, summer dessert
