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Light Cottage Cheese Jello Salad in a bowl, topped with fruits and nuts.

Light Cottage Cheese Jello Salad

A nostalgic, breezy salad combining flavored gelatin, creamy cottage cheese, and juicy pineapple, perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients
  • 3.5 oz flavored gelatin Use strawberry or lime for best color.
  • 16 oz crushed pineapple Well-drained to prevent a watery salad.
  • 16 oz cottage cheese Preferably small curd for smoother texture.
  • 8 oz whipped topping For less sweetness, use lightly sweetened whipped cream.
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract Adds flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil 1 cup of water and pour it into a heatproof bowl. Add the flavored gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved.
  2. Pour in 1/2 cup of cold water into the gelatin to help it cool, then let it sit for 5–8 minutes until warm.
  3. Thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple in a sieve for at least 10 minutes, pressing gently to remove excess juice.
  4. In a mixing bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and vanilla extract until smooth. For a silkier texture, pulse in a blender.
  5. Gradually pour the cooled gelatin into the cottage cheese mixture, stirring gently until fully incorporated.
  6. Fold in the drained pineapple and whipped topping until evenly mixed, being careful not to overmix.
  7. Spoon the mixture into your serving dish and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours or until set.
  8. Before serving, garnish with fresh berries, toasted coconut, or nuts.

Notes

This salad is a great make-ahead option. It keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Avoid freezing as texture may change. Customize with different fruits and flavors as desired.