Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mind-blowing culinary creation that will transform your understanding of salads forever! This Pineapple and Cheese Salad is not just a dish—it's a flavor adventure that combines the sweet, tangy burst of fresh pineapple with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese. In just 10 minutes, you'll craft a stunning side dish that will have your friends and family begging for the recipe. Prepare to be the star of your next gathering with this unexpected and irresistible combination!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ripe pineapple, diced
- 1 cup cubed cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh pineapple thoroughly under cool running water to remove any surface dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp chef's knife, carefully slice off the top and bottom of the pineapple, creating a stable base for cutting.
- Stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice away the outer skin, removing all the tough, spiky exterior while preserving as much of the sweet fruit as possible.
- Remove any remaining "eyes" or brown spots from the pineapple's surface using the tip of your knife.
- Cut the peeled pineapple into small, uniform dice approximately 1/2 inch in size, ensuring even distribution in the salad.
- Cube the cheddar cheese into similar-sized pieces matching the pineapple's dimensions for consistent texture.
- Finely chop the green onions, using both the white and light green parts for added flavor and color.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapple, cubed cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Add mayonnaise to the mixture, gently folding all ingredients together until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring an even distribution of seasoning.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light appetizer.
Tips
- Choose a ripe pineapple: Look for a fruit that's golden-yellow and gives slightly when pressed.
- Dice ingredients uniformly for the best texture and presentation.
- Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
- Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor melding.
- For extra crunch, consider adding toasted nuts like almonds or pecans.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like gouda or monterey jack.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Serve immediately after mixing to prevent the pineapple from releasing too much liquid.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
