Salad Recipes Archives - Midwestern HomeLife https://midwesternhomelife.com/category/recipes/salad-recipes/ EASY EVERYDAY RECIPES Sat, 30 Sep 2023 23:01:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://midwesternhomelife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/cropped-Copy-of-M-HL-2-32x32.png Salad Recipes Archives - Midwestern HomeLife https://midwesternhomelife.com/category/recipes/salad-recipes/ 32 32 Easy Labor Day Recipes https://midwesternhomelife.com/easy-4th-of-july-recipes/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/easy-4th-of-july-recipes/#respond Wed, 28 Jun 2023 13:07:52 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=22899 Looking for delicious Labor Day recipes? Check out these easy recipes for appetizers, salads, main dishes, and desserts for your Labor Day picnic, BBQ, or potluck. Appetizers Appetizers and snacks that are sweet, savory, and super sharable for your Labor Day party. More Labor Day appetizer recipes --> Salads & Sides Easy Labor Day vegetable...

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Looking for delicious Labor Day recipes? Check out these easy recipes for appetizers, salads, main dishes, and desserts for your Labor Day picnic, BBQ, or potluck.

Appetizers

Appetizers and snacks that are sweet, savory, and super sharable for your Labor Day party.

More Labor Day appetizer recipes -->

Salads & Sides

Easy Labor Day vegetable salads, pasta salads, and dessert salads -- perfect for your summer picnic or potluck.

More Labor Day salad and side dish recipes -->

Main Dishes

Easy Labor Day dinner recipes your friends and family are sure to love.

More Labor Day dinner recipes -->

Desserts

Sweet Labor Day desserts that are fast, easy, and super delicious.

More Labor Day dessert recipes -->

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Old Fashioned Ham Salad Recipe https://midwesternhomelife.com/old-fashioned-ham-salad-recipe/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/old-fashioned-ham-salad-recipe/#respond Mon, 19 Jun 2023 22:54:42 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=22761 This Old-Fashioned Ham Salad recipe is a savory sandwich spread with ham, hard-boiled eggs, green onions, celery, and pickle relish in a creamy dressing. It's a classic recipe with simple ingredients and the perfect way to use leftover ham.  What's better than a succulent holiday ham dinner? The leftover ham!  It's easy to use in so many...

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This Old-Fashioned Ham Salad recipe is a savory sandwich spread with ham, hard-boiled eggs, green onions, celery, and pickle relish in a creamy dressing. It's a classic recipe with simple ingredients and the perfect way to use leftover ham

old fashioned ham salad in a white bowl surrounded by cucumbers, celery, and crackers
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What's better than a succulent holiday ham dinner? The leftover ham! 

It's easy to use in so many different ways, like baked beans, ham fried rice, or rolled up into pinwheel sandwiches ... 

One of our all-time favorites is this homemade ham salad recipe

It's a simple recipe, and it makes the perfect ham salad sandwich. But we also love it on crackers, sliced veggies, and in a lettuce wrap. 

Why You're Going to Love This Recipe

  • Great way to make the most of leftover holiday ham 
  • Perfect recipe for baby showers, bridal showers, and entertaining
  • Easy ham salad recipe to make ahead and keep in the fridge for a quick lunch or snack
  • Versatile ham salad spread -- serve with bread, crackers, lettuce wraps, or veggies

Looking for a great ham recipe for your next holiday meal? Try my Roaster Oven Ham with pineapple brown sugar glaze or Slow Cooker Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

Ingredients

old fashioned ham salad recipe ingredients

Ham. This is our favorite way to use up leftover holiday ham, but you can use any kind of ham, like ham steak or precooked boneless ham from the grocery store. 

Hard-boiled eggs. The hard boiled eggs are divided in this recipe -- the whites are mixed into the ham mixture, and the yolks add rich flavor to the dressing. 

Dijon mustard. Dijon has a distinct sharp flavor that's delicious in the dressing. 

Green onions. Green onions brighten up the flavors in this salad. 

Celery. Celery adds freshness and a little crunch. 

Sweet pickle relish. In this ham spread, sweet relish is the perfect complement to the salty ham. 

Variations

Miracle Whip. You can use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise if you prefer the sweeter, spicier flavor. 

Mustard. Try yellow mustard or one of these Dijon mustard substitutes.

Onions. Red onion, sweet onion, or any of these substitutes for green onion will also work well. 

Pickle relish. You can also use dill pickle relish or chopped-up dill pickles or sweet pickles.

Other mix-ins. Create your own ham salad recipe with mix-ins you love, like diced bell pepper, pimentos, fresh herbs, shredded cheese, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. 

How to Make The Best Ham Salad Recipe

1. Chop the ham. 

Place the ham and egg whites into a large food processor or blender and pulse until the ham is finely chopped to your desired consistency. About 25-30 quick pulses worked perfectly for me in my food processor. Be careful not to over pulse, or it will turn to mush. 

If you don't have a food processor or high-speed blender or prefer a chunkier texture, finely chop the ham and egg whites into small pieces with a sharp knife. 

cubed ham and egg whites in a food processor

2. Make the dressing. 

Mash the egg yolks in a large mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise and mustard and stir until combined. 

mayo mixture, relish, green onions, and celery in a clear bowl

3. Stir the salad together, chill. 

Add the celery, green onions, pickle relish, and ham mixture. Stir until combined. Season with black pepper. 

ham salad mixture in a clear bowl

Chill for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the consistency to firm up a bit. 

Serve on Ritz crackers, slider buns, plain ol' white bread, or scoop up with sliced veggies. 

hand holding up a cucumber slice topped with ham salad

Store leftover ham salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

More Leftover Ham Recipes 

Success Tips

Be careful not to over-process the ham or it can turn to mush. 

​For a chunkier texture, chop the ham and egg whites with a knife. 

FAQs

Can I customize the ingredients in ham salad? 

Absolutely! Ham salad is a versatile dish, and you can customize it to your personal preferences. You can add or omit ingredients based on what you enjoy. For example, you can add diced bell peppers, grated cheese, or different herbs and spices to create your own unique variation.

​How long does ham salad last in the fridge?

​Store ham salad in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

​What is deli ham salad made of?

Ham salad is similar to chicken salad, egg salad, or tuna salad, but it's made with ham that's been finely chopped, mayonnaise, sweet or dill pickle relish, and other vegetables. It's typically served cold as a sandwich spread or on crackers.

ham salad on a cucumber on a white plate with crackers next to a platter with ham salad, veggies, and crackers

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old fashioned ham salad in a white bowl surrounded by cucumbers, celery, and crackers
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Old Fashioned Ham Salad Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Ham Salad recipe is a savory sandwich spread made with chopped ham, hard-boiled eggs, green onions, celery, and pickle relish in a creamy dressing. It's a classic recipe with simple ingredients and the perfect way to use leftover ham
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 10
Calories 280kcal
Author Cara Lanz

Ingredients

  • 3 cups fully cooked ham, chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, divided
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 stalk celery, finely chopped about ⅓ cup
  • ¼ cup sliced green onions 3-4 green onions
  • ¼ cup sweet pickle relish
  • black pepper

Instructions

  • Place the ham and egg whites into a food processor. Pulse 25-30 times until the ham is finely chopped. Don't overpulse, or it will turn to mush.
    For a chunkier texture, finely chop the ham and egg whites with a knife.
  • Mash the egg yolks in a medium bowl. Add the mayonnaise and mustard and stir until combined.
  • Add the celery, green onions, pickle relish, and ham mixture. Stir until combined. Season with black pepper.
  • Chill 1-2 hours before serving.

Notes

Store leftover ham salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 73mg | Sodium: 723mg | Potassium: 158mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 185IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 1mg

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Easy Tuna Nicoise Salad (Sheet Pan Recipe) https://midwesternhomelife.com/tuna-nicoise-salad-recipe/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/tuna-nicoise-salad-recipe/#respond Sat, 10 Jun 2023 22:55:24 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=22638 This easy sheet pan Tuna Nicoise Salad recipe is a simple salad with roasted red potatoes and green beans, olives, hard-boiled eggs, fresh tomatoes, and tuna in a delightful lemon vinaigrette. Delicious light dinner for warm summer months or anytime.  This Tuna Nicoise Salad (pronounced "NEES-wahz") is a delicious and hearty fresh salad that comes together quickly and easily with...

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This easy sheet pan Tuna Nicoise Salad recipe is a simple salad with roasted red potatoes and green beans, olives, hard-boiled eggs, fresh tomatoes, and tuna in a delightful lemon vinaigrette. Delicious light dinner for warm summer months or anytime. 

tuna nicoise salad on a platter with dressing being poured on top
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This Tuna Nicoise Salad (pronounced "NEES-wahz") is a delicious and hearty fresh salad that comes together quickly and easily with roasted vegetables, canned tuna, cherry tomatoes, boiled eggs, and a simple vinaigrette. 

It's the perfect summer salad to enjoy as a meal or a side dish.   

What is a Niçoise Salad? 

A Niçoise salad is a classic French salad that originated in the city of Nice, France in the 19th century.

The original version of salad Niçoise was made from tomatoes, anchovies, and olive oil but has evolved over time to include other ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, olives, potatoes, green beans, and canned tuna or fresh tuna steaks.

A classic Niçoise salad recipe is often served as a composed salad arranged on a large platter, but can also be tossed in a bowl. 

What should and should not be included in a Nicoise salad seems to be a subject of hot debate among purists. You can read more about that here

Why You're Going to Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for a side salad or main meal
  • Budget-friendly recipe that tastes like a million bucks
  • Easy sheet pan dinner recipe
  • Delicious meal with simple ingredients

Try these delicious summer salad recipes next! Caprese Spinach & Arugula SaladStrawberry Goat Cheese SaladMediterranean Orzo Salad, and Watermelon Cucucmber Salad

Ingredients

tuna nicoise salad recipe ingredients

New potatoes. Baby potatoes are excellent in salads because the flesh is tender and creamy and the skin is thin so you don't have to peel them. I like baby red potatoes, but you can use any variety of baby potatoes like baby Yukon golds or fingerling potatoes. 

Fresh green beans. You can also use haricot verts (French green beans), which are longer and thinner and more tender and flavorful than regular green beans. But they can be hard to find -- and more expensive. 

Boiled eggs. The eggs in a classic salade Nicoise are often soft-boiled for 6-7 minutes. If you prefer firmer boiled eggs, cook them for 8-10 minutes. Or try air fryer boiled eggs.

Tuna in oil. Tuna packed in oil has a softer texture and is more flavorful than tuna in water. 

Kalamata olives. Traditional salade Niçoise recipes call for Niçoise olives, which are small, ripe, black olives. However, they are not easy to find. Kalamata olives are a great stand-in. 

Parsley. Fresh herbs add bright herbaceousness to the salad. You can use parsley, basil, tarragon (yum!), chives, or whatever fresh herbs you have. 

Salad greens. Serve tuna Nicoise salad on a bed of spring mix, romaine, or Boston, Bibb, or butter lettuce. 

Variations

Anchovies. Anchovies are a traditional ingredient in a Nicoise salad. If you enjoy the flavor, consider adding a few anchovy fillets into the salad or salad dressing. 

​Fresh tuna. If you prefer, serve your tuna Nicoise salad with slices of lightly seared fresh tuna instead of canned tuna. 

Vegetables. Feel free to add fresh vegetables like sliced cucumbers, radishes, artichoke hearts, or sliced bell peppers for color, texture, and more flavor. 

Capers. Capers are delicious on a Nicoise salad. 

How to Make a Sheet Pan Tuna Nicoise Salad

1. Make the hard boiled eggs. 

Place eggs in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover the eggs with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil, turn burner off, and keep the pan on the burner. Cover with the lid and let the eggs sit for 6-7 minutes (for jammy eggs) or 8-10 minutes (for firmer eggs). Drain hot water and add cold water to pan. Let eggs sit in cold water until cool enough to peel and halve. 

2. Roast the potatoes, green beans, and olives. 

While the eggs are cooking ... 

Place potatoes on a sheet pan and toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake cut side down until browned, about 15 minutes. Move them to one side of the pan. 

Place green beans and olives on the sheet pan and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake 10-12 minutes. 

cooked potatoes, olives, and green beans on a sheet pan

3. Make the Nicoise salad dressing. 

While the potatoes and green beans are cooking ...

Place the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or mason jar. Whisk or shake the dressing ingredients together until combined. 

tuna nicoise salad dressing in a mason jar

4. Assemble the salad. 

Arrange salad greens and herbs on a platter (or divide among plates). Arrange potatoes, green beans, olives, tomatoes, eggs, and tuna on the bed of lettuce.

Drizzle with the dressing, and top with chopped herbs and fresh cracked black pepper. 

tuna nicoise salad on a white platter

​Make Ahead

​Sheet pan Tuna Nicoise salad can be partially made ahead of time by boiling the eggs and making the dressing the day before. 

Success Tips

  • Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes so they roast evenly. 
  • For the best flavor and texture, use the best quality tuna in oil you can afford. 

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna? 

Yes, you can use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna in your Niçoise salad. Cook the tuna to your desired doneness (medium-rare is ideal), cut it into slices, and add it to the salad.

What type of lettuce should I use? 

Traditionally, Boston or Bibb lettuce is used in Niçoise salad. However, you can use other lettuce varieties like Romaine or mixed greens if you prefer. Choose a lettuce that provides a good base and texture for the salad.

Can I customize the ingredients in a Niçoise salad? 

Absolutely! Niçoise salad is versatile, and you can customize it to your liking. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Some common variations include the addition of artichoke hearts, radishes, or capers.

tuna nicoise salad on a white plate with a platter of salad behind it

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Tuna Niçoise Salad

This easy sheet pan Tuna Niçoise Salad recipe is a simple salad with roasted red potatoes and green beans, olives, hard-boiled eggs, fresh tomatoes, and tuna in a delightful lemon vinaigrette. Delicious light dinner for warm summer months or anytime. 
Course Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 505kcal
Author Cara Lanz

Ingredients

  • 4 eggs
  • 12 ounces baby red potatoes, halved or quartered
  • 8 ounces fresh green beans
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cans tuna in oil
  • 5 ounces salad greens
  • ½ cup kalamata or Nicoise olives
  • ½ cup parsley or other fresh herbs
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Niçoise Salad Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cloved garlic, minced
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 425.
  • Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil, turn burner off, and keep the pan on the burner.
    Cover with a lid and let eggs sit for 6-7 minutes (jammy eggs) or 8-10 minutes (firmer eggs). Drain hot water and add cold water to pan. Let eggs sit in cold water until cool enough to peel and halve.
  • Roast potatoes and green beans while eggs are cooking.
    Toss potatoes, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a sheet pan. Arrange potatoes cut side down. Bake until browned, about 15 minutes. Move them to one side of the pan.
  • Toss green beans, olives, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on the sheet pan. Bake 10-12 minutes.
  • Make dressing while potatoes and green beans are cooking.
    Place lemon juice, Dijon mustard, 3 tablespoons olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or mason jar. Whisk or shake until combined.
  • Arrange lettuce and herbs on a platter (or divide among plates). Arrange potatoes, green beans, olives, tomatoes, eggs, and tuna on top. Drizzle with the dressing.

Notes

Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes so they roast evenly. 
For the best quality and texture, use the best quality tuna in oil you can afford. 

Nutrition

Calories: 505kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 19g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 191mg | Sodium: 756mg | Potassium: 1073mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1935IU | Vitamin C: 45mg | Calcium: 89mg | Iron: 4mg

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Taffy Apple Salad https://midwesternhomelife.com/taffy-apple-salad/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/taffy-apple-salad/#respond Wed, 17 May 2023 21:02:38 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=22183 Snickers Taffy Apple Salad with pineapple is a delicious dessert salad with fresh apples, chewy chunks of Snickers, roasted peanuts, and creamy vanilla Cool Whip drizzled with caramel sauce. Perfect side dish for family gatherings or your next potluck.  This Taffy Apple Salad recipe with Snickers and pineapple is the sweet salad you didn't know...

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Snickers Taffy Apple Salad with pineapple is a delicious dessert salad with fresh apples, chewy chunks of Snickers, roasted peanuts, and creamy vanilla Cool Whip drizzled with caramel sauce. Perfect side dish for family gatherings or your next potluck. 

taffy apple salad on a white plate next to bowl of salad
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This Taffy Apple Salad recipe with Snickers and pineapple is the sweet salad you didn't know you needed in your life. 

The base starts with creamy vanilla pudding, crushed pineapple, and Cool Whip folded with pieces of Snickers candy bar, chopped apples, and dry roasted peanuts. And for the finishing touch, a drizzle of caramel sauce. 

And it's actually not too sweet! Tart pineapple, sour cream, and salty peanuts perfectly balance out the flavors. You can also control the sweetness by using tart apples. 

Snicker apple salad is a delicious recipe for any special occasion or holiday dinner. 

If you love this dessert salad recipe, try Orange Fluff Salad, Coffee Fluff, and Fruit Salad with Cool Whip next. 

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Unique and delicious combination of flavors

Crowd-pleasing recipe that's sure to be a hit at your next family potluck

Delicious way to use up extra apples during apple season

Easy recipe to customize with different candy bars and toppings

Ingredients

taffy apple salad ingredients

Instant vanilla pudding mix. One 4-serving box of instant pudding. Ignore all of the directions on the package. 

Crushed pineapple in juices. Do not drain the juices -- you'll mix the whole can with the pudding mix. 

Sour cream. A little sour cream tones down the sweetness and makes it luxuriously creamy. 

Cool Whip. If you're not into Cool Whip, I suggest taking a look at Truwhip. You can also use real whipped cream if you're going to eat right away.

Variations

Pudding. Try your favorite flavor like white chocolate, cheesecake, butterscotch, or pistachio pudding. 

Mini marshmallows. Stir miniature marshmallows in with the apples and Snickers. 

Fruit. Swap out some of the apples for bananas, grapes, strawberries, or blueberries. 

Candy bars. Substitute Snickers for Twix, Milky Way, Butterfingers, Baby Ruth, or 100 Grand bars. For something without chocolate, try Payday or Salted Nut Rolls.

Coconut. Stir in some toasted coconut or sprinkle it on top.

Nuts. Switch out roasted peanuts for almonds, pecans, or walnuts. 

The Best Apples for Snickers Apple Salad

Wondering which kind of apples are best for a dessert salad like Snickers caramel apple salad? Choose an apple that will be nice and crunchy -- but whether you go sweet or tart is up to you! 

Don't worry about them turning brown, as long as they're completely mixed into the pudding mixture, the apples stay fresh.

Sweet Apples

If you're looking for a sweeter apple, try one of these:

  • Honeycrisp
  • Pink Lady
  • Fuji
  • Gala

Tart Apples

To add tart flavor to your taffy apple salad, try: 

  • Braeburn
  • Granny Smith
  • McIntosh
  • Cortland

How to Make Taffy Apple Salad

1. Make the creamy pudding base. 

Combine pineapple with juices and dry pudding mix in a large bowl. Whisk for about 2 minutes. Stir in the sour cream. Set aside to thicken. 

crushed pineapple and pudding mix in a white bowl

2. Chop the Snickers and apples.  

Chop the Snickers into bite-sized pieces. Core and chop the apples. 

hands holding a knife and chopping Snickers bars

3. Assemble the salad. 

Fold the Cool Whip into the pudding mixture until completely incorporated. 

Stir in the apples, Snickers, and roasted peanuts. 

taffy apple salad ingredients in a white bowl

4. Chill, drizzle with caramel, and enjoy!

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly. If desired, drizzle caramel sauce on top before serving. 

Taffy apple salad is best enjoyed the same or next day. 

taffy apple salad in a white bowl

Storage

Store taffy apple salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

Success Tips

Chop the Snickers and apples after you mix the pudding to give the mixture time to thicken.

Do not drain pineapple -- you need the juices to mix with the dry pudding mix. 

If necessary, chill the candy bars a little bit so they are easy to cut into clean pieces. 

FAQs

Can I use other candy bars instead of Snickers?

Yes, you can experiment with different candy bars you love. Some delicious options include Milky Way, Twix, Payday, or Butterfinger.

Is taffy apple salad with Snickers served as a side dish or dessert?

Snicker apple salad is typically served as a dessert. However, it can also be enjoyed as a side dish or a sweet accompaniment to a meal. 

Can I make this Snickers salad recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad a few hours up to a day in advance. After a couple days, the apples release liquid, which can change the texture of the salad. 

How long does Snickers caramel apple salad last in the refrigerator?

This salad can typically be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. However, the texture of the apples may change slightly over time, so it is best enjoyed within the first day or two for the freshest taste and texture.

What type of apples should I use in Snicker apple salad?

Popular choices include tart Granny Smith apples, sweet Gala apples, or sweet-tart Honeycrisp apples. The choice of apple can affect the taste and texture of the salad, so you can choose the variety that suits your preference.

spoon holding up a bite of taffy apple salad with bowl of salad in background

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taffy apple salad in a white bowl
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Taffy Apple Salad

Snickers Taffy Apple Salad with pineapple is a delicious dessert salad with fresh apples, chewy chunks of Snickers, and roasted peanuts mixed with creamy vanilla Cool Whip and drizzled with caramel sauce. Perfect side dish for family gatherings or your next potluck. 
Course Dessert, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 358kcal
Author Cara Lanz

Ingredients

  • 1 3.4 oz. box instant vanilla pudding 4-serving size
  • 20 ounces crushed pineapple, undrained
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 8 ounces Cool Whip or Truwhip
  • 5 cups chopped apples 4-5 medium apples, Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are great options
  • 6 full sized Snicker bars
  • 1 cup salted roasted peanuts
  • caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions

  • Whisk the pudding mix and can of crushed pineapple with juices in a large mixing bowl for about 2 minutes. Stir in the sour cream. Set aside to thicken.
  • Chop the Snickers into bite-sized pieces. Core and chop the apples.
  • Fold the Cool Whip into the pudding mixture until completely incorporated.
    Stir in the apples, Snickers, and roasted peanuts.
    Cover and chill for at least one hour. If desired, serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Notes

Chop the apples and Snickers after you mix the pineapple and pudding to give the mixture time to thicken. 
Do not drain pineapple -- you need the juices to mix with the dry pudding mix. 
If necessary, chill the candy bars a bit so they are easy to cut into clean pieces. 

Nutrition

Calories: 358kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 189mg | Potassium: 333mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 38g | Vitamin A: 171IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 1mg

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Broccoli Cauliflower Bacon Salad https://midwesternhomelife.com/broccoli-cauliflower-bacon-salad/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/broccoli-cauliflower-bacon-salad/#respond Wed, 17 May 2023 20:29:39 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=22158 Broccoli Cauliflower Bacon Salad is the most delicious salad with fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets, juicy grapes, red onion, toasted pecans, and thick-cut bacon tossed in a creamy dressing. It's the perfect side dish for family gatherings, picnics, and BBQs.  This broccoli cauliflower salad recipe is such a delicious and easy salad.  It's packed with...

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Broccoli Cauliflower Bacon Salad is the most delicious salad with fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets, juicy grapes, red onion, toasted pecans, and thick-cut bacon tossed in a creamy dressing. It's the perfect side dish for family gatherings, picnics, and BBQs. 

Broccoli cauliflower bacon salad in a white bowl
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This broccoli cauliflower salad recipe is such a delicious and easy salad. 

It's packed with the delicious flavors of raw cauliflower and broccoli florets, diced red onion, crispy bacon, sweet grapes, and crunchy pecans in a tangy, sweet dressing.    

Cauliflower broccoli salad is an easy side dish for weeknight dinners or BBQs and a great meal prep recipe -- the veggies stay nice and crunchy for days. 

Delicious served with BBQ Chicken or Dr. Pepper Ribs, and Tuna Macaroni Salad or Old Fashioned Three Bean Salad.

Why You're Going to Love This Recipe

Easy broccoli salad recipe for busy weeknights

Always a crowd-pleaser at picnics and barbecues

Leftover salad is nice and crunchy and tastes great the next day

Ingredients

Please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the full measurements and list of ingredients. 

Broccoli cauliflower bacon salad ingredients

Broccoli florets and cauliflower florets. Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small pieces to make it easier to eat and help distribute the flavors and textures more evenly. 

Red grapes. Red grapes add fresh juiciness and pretty color to the salad. You can also use green grapes. 

Toasted pecans. Toasting pecans brings out even more flavor in the nuts -- and it only takes a few minutes. But you can skip toasting the nuts if you're in a hurry. 

Nonfat Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt lightens up the homemade dressing and adds tang. 

Mayonnaise. Mayo emulsifies the dressing and makes it smooth and creamy.  

Substitutions & Variations

Vegetables. Try swapping out some of the broccoli for shaved brussels sprouts. 

Dried fruit. Instead of grapes, dried cranberries or dried cherries are both excellent choices. 

Nuts. Try crunchy sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, or pine nuts instead of pecans. 

Cheese. Cubed or shredded sharp cheddar cheese or crumbled blue cheese would be delicious in this creamy broccoli salad. 

Greek yogurt. Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or go 50/50 and use ½ cup sour cream and ½ cup mayo. 

Mayonnaise. You can use light mayo, olive oil mayonnaise, or Miracle Whip. 

Apple cider vinegar. You can also use red wine vinegar, white vinegar, or one of these apple cider vinegar substitutes

How to Make Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Bacon

 1. Toast the pecans. 

Warm a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and stir for 2-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly toasted. Chop and store in a ziptop bag until it's time to serve the salad. 

2. Fry the bacon. 

Cut bacon into ½-inch pieces. Place in a hot skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Fry and stir until golden brown and crispy, 6-9 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. When cool, store in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to serve the salad. 

3. Make the salad dressing. 

Whisk the poppyseed dressing ingredients together in a large mixing bowl. 

poppyseed dressing ingredients in a white bowl

4. Assemble the salad. 

Add the broccoli, cauliflower, grapes, and diced red onions. Stir to coat the salad with the tangy dressing. Chill for at least 2 hours. 

Broccoli cauliflower bacon salad ingredients in a white bowl

Right before serving, add the toasted pecans and crispy bacon pieces. Toss to combine. 

Broccoli cauliflower bacon salad in a white bowl

Storage

Store leftover broccoli bacon cauliflower salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

Success Tips

Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces to make it easier to eat. 

Let the salad sit for 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. 

Add the bacon and nuts right before serving to keep them from getting soggy. 

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time? 

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. However, it is best to wait to add the bacon and nuts until just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

What kind of dressing is best for broccoli cauliflower bacon salad? 

A creamy dressing, such as a poppyseed, ranch, or blue cheese dressing tastes great with this salad.

Can I make this salad without bacon? 

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this classic broccoli salad by omitting the bacon. 

How long will broccoli cauliflower bacon salad keep in the refrigerator? 

This salad will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

Broccoli cauliflower bacon salad on a white plate

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Broccoli cauliflower bacon salad in a white bowl
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Broccoli Cauliflower Bacon Salad

Broccoli Cauliflower Bacon Salad is the most delicious salad with fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets, juicy grapes, red onion, toasted pecans, and thick-cut bacon tossed in a creamy poppyseed dressing. It's the perfect side dish for family gatherings, picnics, and BBQs. 
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 192kcal
Author Cara Lanz

Ingredients

  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 4 cups cauliflower florets
  • 1 cup halved red grapes
  • ½ cup diced red onion
  • ½ cup chopped toasted pecans
  • ½ pound thick cut bacon

Poppyseed Dressing

  • ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon poppyseeds

Instructions

  • To toast the pecans, warm a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and stir for 2-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly toasted.
  • Cut bacon into ½ inch pieces. Place in a hot skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Fry and stir until golden brown and crispy. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate. Store in the refrigerator until it's time to serve the salad.
  • Whisk the poppyseed dressing ingredients together in a large bowl.
    Add the broccoli, cauliflower, grapes, and red onion. Stir to coat the salad in the dressing. Chill for at least 2 hours.
    Toss in the bacon and chopped pecans right before serving.

Notes

Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces to make it easier to eat. 
Let the salad sit for 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. 
Add the bacon and nuts right before serving to keep them from getting soggy. 

Nutrition

Calories: 192kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 183mg | Potassium: 303mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 210IU | Vitamin C: 44mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 1mg

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Honey Poppyseed Dressing https://midwesternhomelife.com/honey-poppyseed-dressing/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/honey-poppyseed-dressing/#respond Wed, 17 May 2023 18:53:18 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=22007 This homemade honey poppyseed dressing recipe is sweet and tangy with a lovely nutty crunch -- and super easy to stir together with 6 simple ingredients. Delicious on strawberry spinach salad and broccoli cauliflower salad.  Homemade dressings are so delicious and easy to make, and a great way to elevate your favorite salad. We're really...

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This homemade honey poppyseed dressing recipe is sweet and tangy with a lovely nutty crunch -- and super easy to stir together with 6 simple ingredients. Delicious on strawberry spinach salad and broccoli cauliflower salad. 

honey poppyseed dressing in a mason jar on a white plate
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Homemade dressings are so delicious and easy to make, and a great way to elevate your favorite salad. We're really loving Maple Balsamic Dressing and Honey Lime Dressing at the moment!

But our new favorite is this creamy honey poppy seed dressing

It's a little sweet, a little tangy, and kinda-sorta healthy. 

The base is nonfat Greek yogurt and a little mayo for smoothness, honey for sweet flavor, apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard for zip, and crunchy poppy seeds for nuttiness and texture. 

This creamy dressing is the perfect accompaniment for green salads, broccoli cauliflower salad, kale saladstrawberry salad -- really any sweet or savory fruit or vegetable salads. 

Why You're Going to Love This Recipe

Delicious recipe that tastes wayyyyy better than grocery store dressings

A healthier option because you control the ingredients

Easy to customize to your personal preference -- make it as sweet or tangy as you like!

Ingredients

This delicious dressing comes together with just a handful of ingredients. 

honey poppyseed dressing ingredients

Nonfat Greek yogurt. I use Chobani. Full fat Greek yogurt will also work. 

Mayonnaise. A little mayonnaise is a perfect emulsifier and adds unctuous creaminess to the Greek yogurt. 

Honey. You can also use maple syrup or white sugar. Honey is sweeter than sugar, so if you use sugar, you may need to add a bit more to get the same level of sweetness. 

Apple cider vinegar. All out of ACV? Try white wine vinegar, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, or one of these apple cider vinegar substitutes

Dijon mustard. Dijon helps emulsify the dressing and adds richness to the dressing. You can also use dry mustard or one of these Dijon substitutes

Poppyseeds. Poppyseeds add a subtle nutty flavor, delicate crunch, and pretty color to the dressing. 

Variations

Customize this creamy poppy seed dressing recipe to make it your own! Try adding: 

  • Finely diced shallots or red onion or chopped green onions 
  • Minced garlic or a little garlic powder
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or basil

How to Make Homemade Honey Poppyseed Dressing

Stir all of the ingredients together in a small bowl until completely combined. Or whiz it up in a small food processor or blender. 

honey poppyseed dressing in a clear mixing bowl with a whisk

Use as a dressing for your favorite salads or a dip for veggies. 

This recipe yields 1 ¼ cups dressing. 

Store poppyseed dressing in a covered mason jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.  

spoon dripping honey poppyseed dressing into a mason jar

Success Tips

Whisk the dressing in a bowl or use a blender or food processor to blend it all together

Taste the dressing as you go and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking

After storing poppyseed dressing in the refrigerator, give it a good shake or stir before using it

FAQs

How long does homemade honey poppyseed dressing last? 

This homemade dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Be sure to give it a good shake or stir before using it again.

How can I adjust the thickness of my poppyseed dressing? 

If your poppyseed dressing is too thick, you can add a little bit of water or milk to thin it out. If it's too thin, you can add more yogurt or mayonnaise thicken it.

What types of salads pair well with poppyseed dressing? 

Honey poppyseed dressing pairs well with a variety of salads, including fresh fruit salads, green salads, and vegetable salads.

Some popular salad ingredients that go well with poppyseed dressing include strawberries, mandarin oranges, romaine lettuce, spinach, and mixed salad greens.

Can I use a different type of vinegar in my honey poppyseed dressing? 

Yes, you can use a different type of vinegar in this tangy honey poppy seed dressing recipe.

Red wine vinegar, white vinegar, or one of these apple cider vinegar substitutes can be used dressing. Keep in mind that the flavor of the dressing may be slightly different with the use of a different vinegar.

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honey poppyseed dressing in a mason jar on a white plate
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Poppyseed Dressing

 This homemade honey poppy seed dressing recipe is sweet and tangy with a lovely nutty crunch -- and super easy to stir together with 6 simple ingredients. Delicious on strawberry spinach salad and broccoli cauliflower salad. 
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 10
Calories 76kcal
Author Cara Lanz

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 ½ teaspoons poppyseeds

Instructions

  • Stir all of the ingredients together in a small bowl until completely combined.
  • Store poppyseed dressing in a covered jar in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Notes

Recipe yields about 1 ¼ cups dressing. 
Whisk the dressing in a bowl or use a blender or food processor to blend it all together.
Taste the dressing as you go and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
After storing poppyseed dressing in the refrigerator, give it a good shake or stir before using it.

Nutrition

Calories: 76kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 50mg | Potassium: 33mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 5IU | Vitamin C: 0.05mg | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 0.1mg

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Orange Fluff Salad (without Cottage Cheese) https://midwesternhomelife.com/orange-fluff-salad-without-cottage-cheese/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/orange-fluff-salad-without-cottage-cheese/#respond Wed, 05 Apr 2023 22:39:26 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=21500 Orange Fluff Salad is a light and fluffy dessert made with orange gelatin, instant pudding, Cool Whip, sweet mandarin oranges, pineapple, mini marshmallows, and pecans (no cottage cheese). Sometimes called orange stuff, this delicious Jello salad is always a crowd favorite. Orange fluff Jello salad is a super creamy, fluffy, fruity dessert salad. And yes,...

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Orange Fluff Salad is a light and fluffy dessert made with orange gelatin, instant pudding, Cool Whip, sweet mandarin oranges, pineapple, mini marshmallows, and pecans (no cottage cheese).

Sometimes called orange stuff, this delicious Jello salad is always a crowd favorite.

orange fluff salad topped with pecans in a white bowl
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Orange fluff Jello salad is a super creamy, fluffy, fruity dessert salad.

And yes, dessert salad is a thing. Especially here in the Midwest.

At any given Midwestern potluck, you're likely to find the salad table loaded up with everything from savory potato salad and tuna macaroni salad to sweet delights like cookie salad, ambrosia salad, and many interpretations of fruit salad with Cool Whip.

This Orange Jello fluff recipe contains all the things there are to love about sweet salad recipes: orange Jello, vanilla pudding, Cool Whip, mandarin oranges, pineapple, and marshmallows. And toasted pecans for nuttiness and crunch.

I especially love the combo of orange Jello, vanilla pudding, and creamy Cool Whip -- it adds an orange creamsicle fluff kind of vibe.

This sweet treat is the perfect side dish-slash-dessert recipe for holidays, picnics, potlucks, and any special occasion.

Why You're Going to Love This Recipe

  • Light and refreshing dessert salad
  • Simple recipe with minimal ingredients
  • Delicious side dish or dessert for picnics and potlucks
  • Easy recipe to customize with your favorite flavors

Ingredients

orange fluff salad ingredients

Orange Jell-o. One 3 oz. box, the 4-serving size. Ignore all of the directions on the box.

Vanilla or French vanilla instant pudding mix. Be sure to get instant pudding, not cook-and-serve, which seems weird because it's gonna get cooked. But trust. Cook & serve pudding makes the mixture clumpy and weird.

Drained Mandarin oranges, water reserved. One 15 oz. can of drained mandarin oranges goes into the fluff salad, and the water is used to make the Jello mixture.

Pineapple tidbits. Drained pineapple chunks add a tangy bite. I don't recommend using fresh pineapple -- it contains an enzyme that can affect the texture and flavor of desserts with gelatin and dairy.

Mini marshmallows. The texture of the marshmallows add to the overall fluff factor. You can also snip large marshmallows into quarters.

Toasted pecans. All that fluffiness needs a bit of crunchy relief. Toasted pecans do the trick and add nutty flavor.

Recipe Variations

Jello. Feel free to try a different Jello flavor like strawberry Jello or peach Jello!

Pudding. Cheesecake or white chocolate pudding would be delicious!

Fruit. You can use any kind of canned fruit like peaches or fruit cocktail. Or stir in fresh fruit like strawberries, bananas, grapes, and blueberries.

Whipped topping. If you're not into Cool Whip, I suggest trying Truwhip. You can also use real whipped cream, it just might not stay fluffy for quite as long.

Nuts. Any kind of nuts work here like walnuts or almonds. And if you're not a nuts-in-things kind of person, leave them out. Toasted coconut would also be a great addition.

How to Make Orange Fluff Salad

1. Make the orange Jello pudding base.

Place the dry orange Jello mix and dry instant vanilla pudding mix in a medium saucepan. Add 1 cup of water from the mandarin oranges (add regular water as needed to get to 1 cup).

Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

jello and pudding mixture in saucepan

Remove from the heat and stir in ½ cup ice water until melted.

Pour the mixture into a large heat-proof bowl. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or until it no longer feels warm.

2. Toast the pecans, optional.

Warm a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and stir for 2-5 minutes until the pecans are fragrant and lightly toasted.

Immediately remove the pecans from the pan to keep them from toasting any further (or burning).

3. Stir the fruit salad together.

Remove the Jello mixture from the refrigerator and give it a quick whisk. Fold in the Cool Whip.

orange pudding and cool whip mixture in a white mixing bowl

Stir in the drained oranges, drained pineapple, marshmallows, and pecans. 

orange fluff salad ingredients in white mixing bowl

4.Chill, serve, enjoy!

Cover bowl in plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

orange fluff salad in a white bowl

Serve with additional toasted pecans.

orange fluff salad topped with pecans in a white bowl

Store leftover mandarin orange salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Success Tips

Don't dump out the water from the oranges! Use it cook the Jello and pudding mixture.

Be sure to use instant pudding. Cook and serve pudding will make the texture clumpy and weird.

Try a different flavor of Jello like strawberry or peach!

FAQs

Can I add other fruits to this orange fluff recipe?

You bet! You can use other types of canned fruit like peaches, fruit cocktail, or maraschino cherries. Or add fresh fruit like bananas, or strawberries.

Be aware that fresh fruit will soften and release juices in a day or so and can affect the texture of the salad.

Fresh pineapple is not recommended as it contains an enzyme that can affect the flavor and texture of recipes with gelatin and dairy.

Can I use another flavor of Jello in this recipe?

Yes! This is a great recipe to customize with your favorite flavors of Jello, fruit, and pudding!

How long can I store orange fluff salad?

This orange fluff salad recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

More Delicious Salads

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orange fluff salad topped with pecans in a white bowl
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Orange Fluff Salad

Orange Fluff Salad is a light and fluffy dessert with a bright and tangy orange flavor. Sometimes called orange stuff, this delicious Jello salad is loaded with sweet mandarin oranges, pineapple, pecans, and mini marshmallows (no cottage cheese) -- always a crowd favorite.
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 48 minutes
Servings 10
Calories 236kcal
Author Cara Lanz

Ingredients

  • 1 3 oz. box orange Jello
  • 1 3.4 oz. box instant vanilla pudding
  • 1 15 oz. can mandarin oranges in water reserve the water
  • ½ cup ice water
  • 8 oz. Cool Whip
  • 1 20 oz. can pineapple tidbits in juice, drained
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows or large marshmallows cut into small pieces
  • ½ cup toasted pecans

Instructions

  • Place the orange Jello mix and instant vanilla pudding mix in a medium saucepan.
    Add 1 cup of the juice from the mandarin oranges (add water as necessary to get to one cup).
    Bring to a boil over medium heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • Remove from the heat. Stir in ½ cup of ice water until the ice has melted.
    Pour the mixture into a large heat-proof bowl. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or until it is no longer warm and slightly chilled.
  • Meanwhile, toast the pecans. Warm a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and stir them around in the pan for 2-5 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly toasted.
    Immediately remove the pecans from the pan to keep them from toasting any further (or burning).
  • Remove the Jello mixture from the refrigerator and give it a quick whisk. Fold in the Cool Whip until completely combined.
    Stir in the drained oranges, drained pineapple, marshmallows, and pecans.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
    Serve with additional toasted pecans.

Notes

Store leftover mandarin orange salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Don't dump out the water from the oranges! Use it to cook the Jello and pudding mixture.
Be sure to use instant pudding. Cook and serve pudding will make the texture clumpy and weird.
Try a different flavor of Jello like strawberry or peach!

Nutrition

Calories: 236kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 0.5mg | Sodium: 128mg | Potassium: 174mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 38g | Vitamin A: 606IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 0.5mg

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Fruit Salad with Cool Whip https://midwesternhomelife.com/fruit-salad-with-cool-whip/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/fruit-salad-with-cool-whip/#respond Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:19:29 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=21468 Fruit Salad with Cool Whip and pudding is a light and refreshing fresh fruit salad in a creamy Cool Whip dressing that stirs together in minutes. Easy recipe to customize to your liking -- perfect for your next family gathering or special occasion. Cool Whip Fruit Salad is the the best fruit salad ever. And...

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Fruit Salad with Cool Whip and pudding is a light and refreshing fresh fruit salad in a creamy Cool Whip dressing that stirs together in minutes. Easy recipe to customize to your liking -- perfect for your next family gathering or special occasion.

fruit salad recipe with cool whip topped with coconut and pecans in a white bowl
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Cool Whip Fruit Salad is the the best fruit salad ever.

And by salad, I mean salad-slash-dessert-- the kind that's a staple at summer picnics, church potlucks, and holiday meals here in the Midwest.

This traditional fruit salad with Cool Whip may not technically be an ambrosia fruit salad, but I think it could definitely classify as a "food of the gods."

The mixture of delicious fruity flavors and textures and the sweet mandarin orange dressing is heavenly. And the toasted coconut and pecans add nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

How to Make Fruit Salad with Cool Whip and Pudding

This delicious fruit salad with Cool Whip recipe is loaded with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and grapes, canned pineapple, toasted coconut, and pecans.

And the creamy salad dressing is made from a can of undrained mandarin oranges, instant vanilla pudding mix, and Cool Whip.

The best part? This Cool Whip fruit salad recipe can easily live in harmony on the salad table next to the Tuna Macaroni Salad and English Pea Salad OR the dessert table with the Hello Dolly Bars and Coconut Dream Bars.

Why You're Going to Love This Recipe

Cool and creamy fruit salad, perfect for cooling off in the hot summer months

Easy dessert salad recipe with simple ingredients

Versatile recipe to customize with different fruit and pudding flavors

Refreshing and light dessert salad (yes, that's a thing, lol)

Ingredients

fruit salad recipe with cool whip ingredients

Mandarin oranges. One 15 oz. can of mandarin oranges in water (usually labeled "no sugar added') mixes with the vanilla pudding mix and Cool Whip for the yummiest fruit salad dressing ever.

Instant vanilla pudding mix. You can use vanilla or French vanilla instant pudding mix. Be sure to use instant pudding -- cook-and-serve pudding won't set up. It's hard to tell all the boxes apart, so just remember that cook & serve pudding has a spoon on the box.

Fresh fruit. I chose green grapes, strawberries, and blueberries. You can use your favorite fresh fruit.

Canned pineapple. Fresh pineapple isn't recommended because it contains an enzyme that can affect the flavor and texture. Besides, who wants to break down a whole pineapple anyway?

Toasted coconut flakes. You can use regular coconut, but if you have a few minutes to toast the coconut, it's totally worth it.

Pecans. Toasted pecans add a crunchy element to the otherwise creamy vanilla pudding fruit salad.

Recipe Variations

Crushed pineapple. You can also mix the dry pudding mix into a can of crushed pineapple.

Instant pudding. Cheesecake or white chocolate pudding would also be delicious!

Fruit. Use your favorite fresh fruit or berries like bananas, kiwi, or raspberries, or drained canned fruit like peaches, maraschino cherries, or fruit cocktail salad.

Whipped topping. If you're not into Cool Whip, give Truwhip a try! Fresh whipped cream would also work -- just be sure to serve it right away or it can get runny.

Marshmallows. Go ahead and add some mini marshmallows!

Coconut. If you're not into coconut, leave it out.

Nuts. Use your favorite nuts like pistachios, walnuts, or almonds.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the pecans (optional).

Warm a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans. Stir for 2-5 minutes until the pecans are fragrant and lightly toasted. Immediately remove from the heat and place on a cutting board or plate.

2. Toast the coconut (optional).

Warm a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the coconut and reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir for 3-4 minutes until the coconut is lightly toasted. Immediately remove from the heat and place on a cool plate.

3. Make the fruit salad dressing.

In a large bowl, whisk the undrained oranges and water with the dry instant pudding mix until combined.

oranges and pudding mix in a white mixing bowl

Fold in the Cool Whip.

orange pudding Cool whip mixture in white mixing bowl

4. Assemble the salad.

Stir in the grapes, blueberries, strawberries, drained can of pineapple tidbits, coconut, and pecans.

fruit salad recipe with cool whip ingredients in white mixing bowl

Cover with plastic wrap and chill for one hour.

5. Serve and enjoy!

Serve with additional coconut, pecans, and fruit.

fruit salad recipe with cool whip topped with coconut and pecans and fruit in a white bowl

This salad is best enjoyed the same day it is made.

small white bowl of cool whip fruit salad with larger bowl of salad in background

Storage

Store leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

After a day or so, the fruit will start to soften and release juices. The salad will still be very delicious, it just have a thinner consistency.

Success Tips

You don't have to toast the coconut and pecans, but it's definitely worth the time!

Customize with your favorite fruits or what's in season. Peaches, raspberries, kiwi, blackberries, bananas, or apples would all be delicious.

To make ahead of time, prep the fruit, toasted coconut, and toasted pecans, and store them in individual containers. The day of, make the dressing and stir everything together.

FAQs

What is Cool Whip fruit salad?

This Jello fruit salad with Cool Whip is a classic fruit salad recipe made by mixing a variety of fresh fruits with a mixture of instant pudding mix, mandarin oranges, and Cool Whip.

What fruits can I use in fruit salad with whipped cream?

This is such an easy fruit salad recipe to customize -- you can use any combination of fruits you like.

Popular choices include fresh strawberries, blueberries, grapes, raspberries, and bananas. Fresh pineapple is not recommended because it contains an enzyme that can affect the flavor and texture.

You can also make this fruit salad with canned fruit, just be sure to drain it well first.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. However, keep in mind that the texture of the salad may be slightly different.

Can I make fruit salad with Cool Whip and Jello ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad several hours in advance.

The best way to make it a day ahead of time is to prepare the fruit, toasted coconut, and toasted pecans and store them in separate containers. The next day, just make the dressing and stir everything together.

fruit salad recipe with cool whip topped with coconut and pecans in a white bowl

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fruit salad recipe with cool whip topped with coconut and pecans in a white bowl
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Fruit Salad with Cool Whip

Fruit Salad with Cool Whip is a light and refreshing fresh fruit salad packed with a colorful array of fresh fruits in a creamy Cool Whip dressing. Easy recipe to customize to your liking, perfect for your next family gathering or special occasion.
Course Salad, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 198kcal
Author Cara Lanz

Ingredients

  • 15 oz. can mandarin oranges in water, undrained
  • 1 3.4 oz. box instant vanilla pudding (4 serving size)
  • 8 oz. Cool Whip
  • 2 cups green grapes, halved
  • 2 cups blueberries
  • 2 cups strawberries, sliced
  • 20 oz. can pineapple tidbits, drained
  • ½ cup coconut flakes
  • ½ cup pecans

Instructions

  • Toast the pecans. Warm a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans. Stir for 2-5 minutes until the pecans are fragrant and lightly toasted. Immediately remove from the heat and place on a cutting board or plate.
  • Toast the coconut. Warm a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the coconut and reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir for 3-4 minutes until the coconut is lightly toasted. Immediately remove from the heat and place on a cool plate.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk the undrained oranges in water with the dry instant pudding mix until combined. Fold in the Cool Whip.
  • Stir in the grapes, blueberries, strawberries, drained pineapple, coconut, and pecans.
  • Chill for one hour. Serve with additional coconut, pecans, and fruit.
    This salad is best enjoyed the same day it is made.

Notes

You don't have to toast the coconut and pecans, but the additional flavor is definitely worth the time!
Customize with your favorite fruits or what's in season. Peaches, raspberries, kiwi, blackberries, bananas, or apples would all be delicious.

STORAGE

Store leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
After a day or so, the fruit will start to soften and release juices. The salad will still be very delicious, it just have a thinner consistency.

MAKE AHEAD

You can make Cool Whip fruit salad up to 4-6 hours in advance.
To make a day ahead of time, prep the fruit, toasted coconut, and toasted pecans, and store them in individual containers. The next day, make the dressing, stir everything together, chill, and serve. 

Nutrition

Calories: 198kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 0.4mg | Sodium: 78mg | Potassium: 261mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 29g | Vitamin A: 538IU | Vitamin C: 34mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 1mg

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Easy Maple Balsamic Dressing https://midwesternhomelife.com/easy-maple-balsamic-dressing/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/easy-maple-balsamic-dressing/#respond Sun, 02 Apr 2023 10:33:21 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=21420 Homemade Maple Balsamic Dressing is the perfect way to elevate your favorite salads. This sweet and tangy vinaigrette dressing shakes together quickly with simple ingredients and is so much better than anything you'll find at the store. Maple balsamic vinaigrette is one of my favorite homemade salad dressings. The bold flavor of the balsamic balances...

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Homemade Maple Balsamic Dressing is the perfect way to elevate your favorite salads. This sweet and tangy vinaigrette dressing shakes together quickly with simple ingredients and is so much better than anything you'll find at the store.

maple balsamic dressing in a short mason jar with a salad in the background
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Maple balsamic vinaigrette is one of my favorite homemade salad dressings.

The bold flavor of the balsamic balances perfectly with the sweet maple syrup for a versatile dressing that can take even the most simple salad to the next level.

This rich and flavorful dressing comes together quickly with common pantry staples you probably already have: balsamic vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, and minced garlic.

Maple Balsamic Dressing is delicious on:

Green salads. Our favorites are Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad, Caprese Spinach and Arugula Salad

Roasted vegetables. The flavors pair perfectly with roasted carrots and brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes

Meat. It's a great marinade for chicken or pork chops.

Ingredients

maple balsamic dressing ingredients

Balsamic vinegar. Look for a good quality balsamic vinegar of Modena that has been aged in wood for at least 4 hours. Don't bother using pricier traditional balsamic vinegar in a salad dressing recipe -- save it for drizzling on finished dishes (or ice cream!).

Pure maple syrup. Real maple syrup gives this delicious balsamic vinaigrette recipe a touch of sweetness.

Dijon mustard. Dijon not only adds flavor but acts as an emulsifier in homemade dressings.

Extra-virgin olive oil. Because oil is the main ingredient in the dressing, get the best quality olive oil you can afford. Avocado oil is a good substitute.

Recipe Variations

Garlic. You can use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic. As an alternative, you can also use fresh minced shallots or red onion.

Mustard. Stone ground mustard is a great substitute for Dijon in a homemade vinaigrette.

Fresh herbs. Add your favorite herbs like fresh rosemary or fresh thyme.

How to Make Balsamic Maple Dressing

Place all of the ingredients in a small bowl or small mason jar with a lid.

Whisk in the bowl or give it a good shake in the covered jar until all of the ingredients have combined.

spoonful of maple balsamic dressing over a short jar of dressing

Toss with your favorite salad or serve on the side.

spinach and arugula salad on a white platter

Storage

Store leftover dressing in a covered airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Success Tips

This dressing is very tangy with a low oil to acid ratio. If you prefer more oil, add more.

Taste the dressing and adjust to your liking, adding more balsamic or more maple syrup as needed.

FAQs

What are the ingredients in maple balsamic dressing?

Balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper

Can I substitute the maple syrup with honey?

Yes, honey is a great substitute for maple syrup in maple balsamic vinaigrette.

Can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the dressing?

Of course, that's the beauty of making your own salad dressings! Add a little more balsamic vinegar or a little more maple syrup to adjust the tanginess and sweetness of the dressing.

Delicious Salad Recipes

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📖 Recipe

maple balsamic dressing in a short mason jar with a salad in the background
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Maple Balsamic Dressing

Homemade Maple Balsamic Dressing is the perfect way to elevate your favorite salads. This sweet and tangy vinaigrette dressing is so much better than anything you'll find at the store and shakes together quickly with simple ingredients.
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 154kcal
Author Cara Lanz

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Place all of the ingredients in a small bowl or jar with a lid. Whisk or shake vigorously in covered jar until completely combined.
  • Serve immediately or store covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Shake or stir before serving.

Notes

This dressing is very tangy with a low oil to acid ratio. If you prefer more oil, add more.
Taste the dressing and adjust to your liking, adding more balsamic or more maple syrup as needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 17mg | Potassium: 33mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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Easy Honey Lime Dressing https://midwesternhomelife.com/recipe-for-honey-lime-salad-dressing/ https://midwesternhomelife.com/recipe-for-honey-lime-salad-dressing/#respond Fri, 31 Mar 2023 16:31:16 +0000 https://midwesternhomelife.com/?p=21403 This super easy recipe for honey lime salad dressing shakes together with just 5 simple ingredients in about 5 minutes. So easy and incredibly delicious on strawberry goat cheese salad with candied walnuts. When I whipped up this honey lime dressing recipe for my Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Candied Walnuts, I found myself wondering...

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This super easy recipe for honey lime salad dressing shakes together with just 5 simple ingredients in about 5 minutes. So easy and incredibly delicious on strawberry goat cheese salad with candied walnuts.

spoonful of honey lime dressing over a mason jar of dressing
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When I whipped up this honey lime dressing recipe for my Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Candied Walnuts, I found myself wondering why I ever buy the stuff at the grocery store.

Homemade dressing makes fresh salads taste at least 1.3 million times better, AND I can make it faster than I can remove that plastic seal from store-bought dressing.

And this honey lime vinaigrette recipe is no exception.

The combination of tart lime juice and sweet honey is sublime, and the Dijon mustard and minced garlic make it the perfect dressing for everything from main dish savory salads to a simple side salad.

It has a low oil to acid ratio, so it's quite tangy. If you like more oil in your dressing, go ahead and add more.

Why You're Going to Love This Recipe

It's so easy to make your own dressing, you may never buy it again!

Delicious salad dressing that's way better than the store-bought varieties

Transform your favorite salad with sweet-tart combo of honey and lime

Ingredients

Please refer to the recipe card for the exact quantities.

honey lime salad dressing ingredients

Fresh lime juice. You'll need the juice of 2-3 limes. You can add the lime zest too!

Honey. Honey adds rich flavor and natural sweetness. Two tablespoons is just the right amount for us, but feel free to adjust the sweetness up or down.

Dijon mustard. Dijon adds a savory vibe and is a great emulsifier in homemade salad dressings.

Olive oil. Good quality extra virgin olive oil adds fruity herbal flavor.

Minced garlic clove. Fresh garlic adds a sharp pungency to the dressing. In a pinch, you can use garlic powder.

Salt and black pepper. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper.

Recipe Variations

Lemon juice. Swap out lime juice for lemon juice.

Honey. You can use maple syrup instead of honey. For best results, use pure maple syrup.

Mustard. Stone ground mustard is a great substitute for Dijon in dressings.

Oil. Avocado oil is a great substitute. You can also use vegetable oil or canola oil, it just won't have the same flavor.

Aromatics, herbs, and spices. Add finely minced red onion, shallots, fresh ginger. fresh cilantro, minced mint leaves, ground cumin

How to Make Honey Lime Salad Dressing

Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl or a glass jar with a tight fitting lid.

Whisk or shake vigorously until the ingredients are completely incorporated.

hand holding mason jar of honey lime dressing

You can also whizz it up in a blender or food processor.

Honey lime dressing pairs well with salad greens, savory fresh fruit salad, grain salad,

strawberry goat cheese salad on a white platter

Store leftover dressing in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Before using, let it sit at room temperature and give it a mighty shake.

Success Tips

This dressing is quite tangy. If you like more oil, go ahead and add it!

When refrigerated, the oil can congeal. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a vigorous whisk or shake.

Feel free to adjust the sweetness up or down to your liking.

FAQs

Can lime juice be used instead of vinegar in honey lime vinaigrette?

Yes. This honey lime dressing is made without vinegar -- -the tangy lime juice is the acid. You can also use fresh lemon juice.

What is lime vinaigrette made of?

This honey lime vinaigrette is a simple mixture of lime juice, honey, Dijon, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

What is the formula for vinaigrette dressing?

The traditional formula for vinaigrette is usually 3:1 -- three parts oil to one part acid. For tangier vinaigrette, you can go as low as 2:1 or even 1:1.

Delicious Salad Recipes

Let's Stay in Touch

Follow Midwestern HomeLife on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, and subscribe via email to receive all of the latest recipes!

📖 Recipe

mason jar of honey lime dressing with honey, limes, and salad in background
Print

Honey Lime Dressing

This super easy recipe for honey lime salad dressing shakes together with just 5 simple ingredients in about 5 minutes. So easy and incredibly delicious on strawberry goat cheese salad with candied walnuts.
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 156kcal
Author Cara Lanz

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2-3 limes
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Place all of the dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake in a sealed jar until completely combined.
  • Serve immediately or store covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
    Shake or stir before serving.

Notes

This dressing is quite tangy. If you like more oil, go ahead and add it!
When refrigerated, the oil can congeal. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a vigorous whisk or shake.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness up or down to your liking.

Nutrition

Calories: 156kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 15mg | Potassium: 24mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 7IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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