This sweet and tangy Millionaire Cranberry Salad is a fun mix of fresh cranberries, fluffy marshmallows, and crunchy nuts. It’s a colorful dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Honestly, it’s like dessert pretending to be a salad! I love serving it during holidays. It adds a cheerful touch and tastes great with the turkey and stuffing. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key for that tart flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, you can use frozen cranberries. Just thaw them before mixing into the salad. They’re a great option and still keep that zing!
Pineapple: Crushed pineapple adds sweetness and moisture. If you don’t have it, try using canned peaches or mango for a different fruit twist. Just make sure to drain them well!
Marshmallows: Miniature marshmallows give a fun texture. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using chopped dates or dried fruits like apricots. They will add a nice chewiness!
Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut is a highlight. Unsweetened coconut works just as well but will be less sweet. If coconut isn’t your thing, you can skip it or use more nuts instead.
Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch and flavor. Walnuts are a good substitute if you prefer them, or even almonds for a different taste. Just toast them lightly to enhance their flavor!
Cottage cheese or whipped topping: This adds creaminess. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace cottage cheese. It’s tangy and thick, perfect for this salad.
How Do I Get the Perfect Mix of Flavors and Textures?
The key to this salad is balance. Start by rinsing and chopping your fresh cranberries; make sure they’re coarsely chopped for a good texture. Then, mix in the crushed pineapple slowly to meld the flavors.
- Mix Gradually: Stir in powdered sugar gradually. This helps balance the tartness of the cranberries with sweetness. Taste as you go!
- Fold Gently: When adding in the marshmallows, coconut, and nuts, fold gently. You want everything to combine without smashing those marshmallows!
- Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating for at least two hours lets flavors develop and marshmallows soften, making it creamy and delightful.
Remember, this salad is adaptable! Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Millionaire Cranberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup cottage cheese or whipped topping (for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep. After that, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours so all the flavors mix together beautifully. In total, you’ll be spending about 2 hours and 15 minutes making this delicious salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Once they’re clean, coarsely chop them using a knife. Then, take a large mixing bowl and place all the chopped cranberries inside. This will set the base for your salad!
2. Add Pineapple:
Next, add the drained crushed pineapple to the bowl with the cranberries. Mix them together gently to combine their flavors. The sweetness of the pineapple will help balance the tartness of the cranberries!
3. Sweeten the Mix:
Gradually sprinkle in the powdered sugar while mixing. Make sure everything is well-coated. The sugar will help sweeten the salad and create a nice sauce around the fruit.
4. Fold in Extras:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Gently fold in the miniature marshmallows, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and either cottage cheese or whipped topping. Use a spatula and be careful not to crush the marshmallows as you mix everything together.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours. This helps the flavors blend and the marshmallows to soften, making the salad creamy and refreshing!
6. Final Touches:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a gentle stir. If desired, garnish with extra chopped pecans and sprinkle some parsley or chives on top for a festive touch. It will look so lovely!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Millionaire Cranberry Salad is now ready! Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish or a fun dessert at gatherings. Everyone will love the colorful mix of flavors and textures!
This vibrant, sweet, and slightly tangy cranberry salad is perfect for any holiday gathering or special occasion. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely before chopping. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. This will help maintain the texture of the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the chilling step, cover it well with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld even better!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur over time.
Can I Substitute Ingredients?
Yes! You can swap out ingredients based on personal preferences. For example, use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a lighter version, or replace pecans with almonds or walnuts. Feel free to get creative!