A light, sweet, and creamy dessert or side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a refreshing treat on warm days. This no-bake dish combines vibrant citrus flavors with fluffy marshmallows and creamy textures.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (thawed for easy mixing)
- 3 ounces orange-flavored gelatin mix (such as Jell-O)
- 16 ounces full-fat cottage cheese (adds a creamy and slightly tangy base)
- 14 ounces mandarin oranges (canned, thoroughly drained to avoid extra liquid)
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple (canned, thoroughly drained to enhance texture)
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows (adds a fluffy, chewy texture)
Directions:
- Prepare the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, add the thawed whipped topping. Sprinkle the orange-flavored gelatin mix over the top. Using a spatula or whisk, stir until the gelatin powder is fully dissolved into the whipped topping. The mixture should turn into a smooth, orange-tinged cream. - Incorporate Cottage Cheese:
Gently fold in the cottage cheese. Take your time to ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the whipped topping mixture. The cottage cheese adds a creamy yet slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness. - Add the Fruits:
- Carefully fold in the drained mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple.
- Be gentle to avoid breaking apart the delicate mandarin orange slices. This will help maintain the salad’s light and fluffy texture while keeping the fruit intact.
- Add the Marshmallows:
Toss in the miniature marshmallows and fold them into the mixture. The marshmallows will add a playful texture and a hint of extra sweetness. - Chill and Set:
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and ensures the salad achieves its classic fluffy texture. - Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Spoon into individual bowls or serve family-style in a decorative dish. Garnish with additional mandarin oranges or a sprinkle of orange zest if desired.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
- Servings: 8
Tips and Variations:
- Add a Crunch: Mix in 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
- Try Different Flavors: Swap out the orange gelatin for lime or strawberry for a twist on the classic.
- Lighten It Up: Use low-fat cottage cheese and sugar-free gelatin for a lighter version.