Get ready to challenge everything you thought you knew about salads! This vintage Cheddar Cheese Jello Salad is a nostalgic culinary adventure that combines unexpected flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds both shocked and delighted. Imagine a creamy, tangy, and slightly crunchy dish that defies traditional salad expectations and brings a touch of mid-century American charm to your dining table. Whether you're a vintage food enthusiast or just looking to surprise your dinner guests, this unique recipe is about to become your new conversation starter!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package lemon jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 package of lemon jello, 1 cup of boiling water, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped celery, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, and 1 cup of mayonnaise.
- In a mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of boiling water over the package of lemon jello. Stir the mixture with a whisk or spoon until the jello is completely dissolved.
- Allow the jello mixture to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. It should not be hot, but still in a liquid state.
- Once the jello has cooled, add 1 cup of mayonnaise to the mixture. Stir well until the mayonnaise is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the jello mixture. Gently fold it in to ensure even distribution without breaking down the cheese.
- Next, add 1/2 cup of chopped celery and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to the bowl. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Pour the entire mixture into a mold or a serving dish of your choice. You can use a gelatin mold for a decorative presentation or simply a bowl.
- Cover the mold or dish with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm and set.
- Once the salad is set, remove it from the refrigerator. If using a mold, carefully invert it onto a serving platter. If using a bowl, simply scoop out portions to serve.
- Slice or scoop the Cheddar Cheese Jello Salad into portions and serve chilled. Enjoy this unique and creamy salad as a side dish or a light appetizer!
Tips
- Temperature is key: Ensure your jello is just slightly cooled before adding mayonnaise to prevent separation.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting and texture.
- For extra crunch, toast your walnuts lightly before chopping.
- Experiment with different jello flavors like lime for a variation.
- Chill the salad for at least 4 hours for the best set and flavor melding.
- Use a clear glass mold to showcase the beautiful layers and ingredients.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise.
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
