Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad is a nostalgic, creamy, and refreshing dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and holiday dinners. Bursting with the bright flavors of citrus and the sweetness of fruit, this salad combines cottage cheese, orange-flavored gelatin, mandarin oranges, and crushed pineapple for a truly irresistible side or dessert. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer barbecue, a festive potluck, or simply to enjoy at home, this dish is quick to make, requires no cooking, and tastes even better after chilling. Perfectly creamy, sweet, and tangy—this salad is a timeless classic everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad
If you’re searching for an easy make-ahead dish that delivers flavor and nostalgia, this recipe is a winner. Here’s why it’s so special:
- Quick & Easy: With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, you can prepare it in minutes.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for potlucks, holiday dinners, or family reunions—this salad feeds a crowd and looks beautiful on any table.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared in advance, making it a stress-free option for hosting or entertaining.
- Customizable: Change up the flavors by using different gelatin varieties or incorporating other fruits for a fresh twist each time.
Ingredients
To make this creamy, fruity salad, you’ll need:
- 22 oz. cottage cheese – The creamy base that makes this salad rich and satisfying.
- 1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple, well-drained – Provides natural sweetness and a pleasant texture.
- 1 (15 oz.) can mandarin oranges, well-drained – Adds a bright, citrusy burst of flavor.
- 1 (3 oz.) box orange Jello powder – Infuses the salad with a refreshing orange flavor and a vibrant pop of color.
- 8 oz. whipped topping, thawed – Creates a light, fluffy texture.
Pro Tip: Make sure to drain the fruit thoroughly—especially the crushed pineapple—to prevent a watery salad.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad
- Combine the Base: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and orange Jello powder until well incorporated.
- Add the Fruit: Carefully fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges.
- Incorporate the Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Chill to Set: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Allowing it to chill enhances the taste and creates a firmer consistency.
- Serve & Enjoy: Spoon into a serving bowl or individual cups for a pretty presentation.
Helpful Tips
- Drain thoroughly: Be sure to remove as much liquid as possible from the crushed pineapple to prevent a watery salad.
- Chill longer for better flavor: While 1 hour is enough, chilling for 2–4 hours makes the salad even creamier.
- Presentation matters: Use a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant, colorful layers.
Substitutions And Variations
This salad is easy to customize! Try these fun swaps:
- Change the flavor: Swap orange Jello for lime, strawberry, raspberry, or lemon for a new twist.
- Experiment with fruits: Try diced pears with lime Jello, fresh strawberries with strawberry Jello, or blueberries with lemon Jello.
- Make it lighter: Use low-fat cottage cheese or sugar-free gelatin for a lighter version.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing: This salad doesn’t freeze well, as the texture changes after thawing.
- Make ahead: Prepare the night before for a stress-free side dish on busy days.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving (8 servings):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
(Values are approximate and may vary based on brands used.)
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect Side Dish: Serve with ham, turkey, or barbecue for a sweet contrast.
- Brunch Favorite: Pair with muffins, quiche, and fruit for a light brunch spread.
- Dessert Option: Serve in individual cups topped with extra whipped cream for a fun dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad
Can I make this a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, making it the day before allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Can I use sugar-free Jello?
Yes! Sugar-free gelatin works perfectly for a lighter, lower-sugar version.
Do I need to dissolve the Jello first?
No need to dissolve the gelatin first; simply stir it in with the cottage cheese.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, but keep in mind that canned fruit adds extra sweetness and softness. If using fresh, chop small and make sure it’s not overly juicy.
Why is my salad watery?
It’s likely due to excess liquid in the fruit. Be sure to drain the pineapple and mandarin oranges thoroughly, even pressing the pineapple lightly to remove extra juice.
Conclusion
Thank you for stopping by to check out this Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad recipe! This creamy, fruity dish has been a longtime favorite in my kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. It’s simple, flavorful, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to bring a smile to the table. Wishing you joy in the kitchen, and heartfelt thanks for being part of our cooking fami
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Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad is a creamy, fruity classic made with cottage cheese, mandarin oranges, pineapple, and orange gelatin. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for gatherings, and tastes even better when chilled.
Ingredients
22 oz. cottage cheese
1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
1 (15 oz.) can mandarin oranges, well-drained
1 (3 oz.) box orange Jello powder
8 oz. whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix cottage cheese with orange Jello powder until combined.
Carefully fold in the well-drained pineapple and mandarin oranges.
Gently stir in whipped topping until smooth.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Drain pineapple and oranges thoroughly to prevent a watery salad.
Chill for 2–4 hours for the best flavor and texture.
Serve in a clear glass bowl for a beautiful presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 7g