Description
Delight in a refreshing Cherry Salad that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make salad combines the sweetness of cherry pie filling with the creaminess of sweetened condensed milk, along with the crunch of walnuts, the tanginess of pineapple chunks, and the fluffiness of mini marshmallows. Topped with Cool Whip, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz / 540 ml)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz / 300 ml)
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 can pineapple chunks (20 oz / 540 ml), drained
- 4 cups Cool Whip, thawed
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cherry pie filling, sweetened condensed milk, chopped walnuts, drained pineapple chunks, and mini marshmallows.
2. Stir: Gently stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
3. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cherry salad for at least 2 hours, or until ready to serve.
4. Serve: Once chilled, remove the cherry salad from the refrigerator and give it a quick stir. Serve chilled and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Cherry Salad chilled for the best flavor and texture.
- Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a dessert.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or additional chopped walnuts for added visual appeal.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover Cherry Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Due to the dairy content, avoid leaving the salad at room temperature for extended periods to prevent spoilage.
- Stir the salad well before serving leftovers to redistribute the ingredients and maintain the creamy texture.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- You can prepare the Cherry Salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Consider preparing it the night before to allow the flavors to meld together for an even tastier salad.
- If making ahead, wait to add the Cool Whip until just before serving to maintain its fluffy texture.
Variation Ideas:
- Add diced fresh strawberries or raspberries for an extra burst of fruity flavor.
- Swap the walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty crunch.
- Experiment with different flavors of Cool Whip such as vanilla or chocolate for a fun twist.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve the Cherry Salad in a decorative glass bowl or individual parfait cups for an elegant presentation.
- Sprinkle some extra mini marshmallows on top just before serving for a whimsical touch.
- Consider serving the salad in hollowed-out fruit bowls such as pineapple halves for a creative and festive display.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Pair the Cherry Salad with grilled chicken or pork for a balanced meal.
- Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a light and satisfying lunch.
- Accompany with iced tea, lemonade, or a fruity white wine for a refreshing beverage option.