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
Scale
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
