Table of Contents: Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad
Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad
Hook: Are you ready to add a nostalgic touch to your Thanksgiving feast? This Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad is a vintage recipe that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want a sweet and creamy treat that’s easy to make. With its vibrant lime Jell-O, crushed pineapple, and creamy whipped topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s both retro and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a large crowd or simply reminiscing about the good old days, this holiday jello salad recipe will transport you back to simpler times—with a modern twist!
Introduction: Why This Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad Is a Must-Try
When it comes to holiday classics, few dishes evoke as much nostalgia as Thanksgiving jello salad. This retro recipe has been a staple at family dinners and holiday gatherings for generations, and it’s easy to see why. Its vibrant green color, creamy texture, and sweet-tart flavor profile make it a standout side dish that complements savory mains like turkey and ham.
But what makes this vintage Thanksgiving salad truly special is its simplicity. With just four ingredients—crushed pineapple, cottage cheese, whipped topping, and lime-flavored gelatin—you can whip up a dish that’s both delicious and eye-catching. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and creamy, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re hosting a large Thanksgiving dinner or looking for an easy dish to bring to a potluck, this holiday jello salad recipe is a no-fuss option that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce younger generations to the retro charm of Jell-O salads. So, let’s dive into this timeless recipe and bring a touch of vintage flair to your holiday table!
Alternate Names & Variations
This dish goes by many names, depending on where you’re from or what era you grew up in. Some might call it lime jello salad, pineapple jello salad, or even creamy jello fluff. Regardless of what you call it, this dish remains a beloved holiday classic.
If you’re looking to switch things up, consider trying variations like:
– Substituting strawberry or orange Jell-O for a different flavor profile.
– Adding mini marshmallows or chopped pecans for extra texture.
– Using Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a tangier twist.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need

To make this Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- – 1 (16 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained: Adds a sweet, tangy flavor and a juicy texture.
- – 1 (16 ounce) container small curd cottage cheese: Provides a creamy, protein-rich base.
- – 1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping (such as Cool Whip®), thawed: Gives the salad its light and fluffy texture.
- – 1 (3 ounce) package lime-flavored gelatin mix (such as Jell-O®): Creates the signature green color and tangy flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Thaw the whipped topping in the refrigerator.
2. Mix the Dry Gelatin: In a large mixing bowl, sprinkle the lime-flavored gelatin mix over the cottage cheese. Stir until well combined.
3. Add Pineapple and Whipped Topping: Fold in the drained crushed pineapple and thawed whipped topping gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
4. Chill the Salad: Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or molded Jell-O mold. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, scoop or slice the salad onto individual plates. Garnish with fresh mint or a sprinkle of lime zest if desired.
Chef’s Tip: For a firmer consistency, refrigerate overnight. If you prefer a lighter texture, use half the whipped topping or fold in some fresh whipped cream.
Recipe Card Block
This Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare and requires no cooking. After chilling for 2 hours, it’s ready to serve. This recipe yields 8 servings, with each serving containing approximately 200 calories.
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
This holiday jello salad recipe is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. The combination of lime Jell-O, pineapple, and creamy cottage cheese creates a flavor and texture that’s both nostalgic and refreshing.
To make this dish even better:
– Use fresh pineapple if you prefer a less sweet flavor.
– Add a splash of lime juice for extra zing.
– Serve in a festive mold for a show-stopping presentation.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the whipped topping, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
People Also Ask: Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad

What Ingredients Go Into a Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad?
This Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad uses just four main ingredients: crushed pineapple, cottage cheese, whipped topping, and lime-flavored gelatin. These simple components combine to create a dish that’s both flavorful and nostalgic.
Is Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad Sweet or Savory?
This salad leans towards the sweet side, thanks to the pineapple and lime Jell-O. However, the cottage cheese adds a slight tanginess that balances out the sweetness, making it a perfect complement to savory holiday dishes.
Can You Make Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad Ahead?
Absolutely! This salad is ideal for preparing ahead of time. Simply mix the ingredients, refrigerate overnight, and it’ll be ready to serve the next day.
What Toppings Enhance a Jell-O Salad?
For added texture and flavor, try topping your salad with chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or fresh fruit like mandarin oranges or berries.
Conclusion: Give This Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad a Try!
There’s something magical about this Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad. It’s a dish that brings smiles, sparks conversations, and reminds us of cherished family traditions. Whether you’re a fan of vintage recipes or just looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert, this salad is sure to become a holiday favorite.
So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner retro chef, and whip up this delightful holiday jello salad recipe for your next gathering. Don’t forget to share your results and comment below—we’d love to hear how it turned out!
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Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Thanksgiving Jell-O Salad combines fruity sweetness with a creamy texture, making it a festive and nostalgic favorite for holiday tables.
Ingredients
- 1 package (6 oz) cherry Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped celery (optional)
Instructions
- Dissolve cherry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water; stir until completely dissolved.
- Stir in the drained crushed pineapple and cranberry sauce.
- Add chopped walnuts and celery if using.
- Pour half of the mixture into a mold or serving dish and refrigerate until set (about 1 hour).
- Once set, spread sour cream over the first layer.
- Pour the remaining Jell-O mixture over the sour cream layer.
- Refrigerate until fully set, at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Unmold if desired, or serve directly from dish. Garnish with extra nuts or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Make this a day ahead for best results. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Chilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: jell-o, thanksgiving, salad, cranberry, holiday, side dish