Festive Cranberry Salad: A Holiday Must-Have
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Every family has that one go-to holiday salad that steals the spotlight at gatherings. You know the one—it gets placed right in the center of the table and disappears in a flash. This Cranberry Salad is just that kind of dish! Bursting with fresh fruit like cranberries, apples, and grapes, it’s dotted with fluffy miniature marshmallows and all brought together with a luscious homemade whipped cream.
This delightful salad is the perfect side for your next turkey dinner or a sweet addition to your dessert table. Trust me, this healthy cranberry salad is sure to be the star of your next holiday feast!
Cranberry Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh or thawed frozen cranberries: If you can get your hands on fresh cranberries, I highly recommend using them! You can chop them or leave them whole for a burst of flavor.
- 1 cup green grapes, halved: These add a lovely tanginess, like little bursts of fresh flavor. Feel free to swap in red grapes if you prefer.
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows: They keep this salad light and fluffy, soaking up all those delicious fruit flavors.
- 1 medium apple, chopped: Choose your favorite variety! The apple adds a nice crunch and holds its texture well, even after sitting overnight.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar: The natural sweetness from the fruit means you won’t need much sugar.
- 1/8 tsp salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Freshly whipped cream gives this salad the right amount of creaminess without being too heavy. Keep it very cold before whipping for the best results.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts: For that extra crunch! You can also use pecans if you prefer.
How to Make Cranberry Salad
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cranberries, grapes, miniature marshmallows, chopped apple, sugar, and salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
- Chill It Out: Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Whip the Cream: When you’re ready to serve, whip the heavy cream using a handheld mixer with a whisk attachment until stiff peaks form. It should be light and fluffy!
- Fold and Serve: Gently fold the whipped cream and chopped walnuts into the chilled fruit mixture. Serve it up and watch it disappear!
What to Serve with This Salad
This cranberry salad is an excellent side dish for any family holiday meal, or it can shine as the star on your dessert table. Pair it with your turkey dinner for a festive touch, or place it next to a rich sticky toffee pudding cake to let those vibrant colors pop! You’re sure to find something delicious to serve alongside it in our recipe index.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Salad
- Short on Time? If you’re in a rush or don’t have the tools to whip your own cream, store-bought whipped topping works just fine.
- Add Some Color: Want to make your salad even more fun? Use multicolor miniature marshmallows for a festive twist!
- Toast Those Walnuts: For an extra depth of flavor, toast the walnuts in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes before chopping them.
FAQs
1. Can I use different fruits in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like pears or mandarin oranges for a unique twist.
2. How long can I store leftovers?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the marshmallows may soften over time.
3. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based whipped topping, and you’re good to go!
This Cranberry Salad is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face at your next gathering. Enjoy the bright flavors and festive vibes! 🍏🍇🍂
