Amish Lime Salad
Amish Lime Salad Recipe - Marshmallows, Pineapple, and Cream Cheese
Introduction
The Amish Lime Salad is a unique and refreshing dish that combines the tanginess of lime with the creaminess of cheese and the sweetness of marshmallows and pineapple. This dish is a testament to the Amish community's culinary creativity, making use of simple ingredients to create a dessert that's both satisfying and delightful. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a sweet end to any meal, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
History
The Amish Lime Salad recipe has its roots in the early 20th century, originating from the Amish communities in the United States. Known for their simple living and resistance to modern technology, the Amish people have developed a cuisine that reflects their lifestyle - uncomplicated yet delicious. This recipe, in particular, became popular for its ease of preparation and the availability of its ingredients, making it a staple in Amish households and beyond.
Ingredients
- 16 marshmallows
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 package of lime gelatin
- 2 packages of cream cheese
- 1 can of crushed pineapple
- 0.67 cup of salad dressing
- 1 cup of whipped cream
How to prepare
- Melt the marshmallows with the milk.
- Pour the mixture over the gelatin while stirring.
- Stir in the cream cheese.
- Add the pineapple and allow the mixture to cool.
- Add salad dressing and whipped cream, then chill until firm.
Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and a light salad dressing.
- Add nuts or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
- Use lemon gelatin and lemon zest for a lemon-flavored variation.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure your Amish Lime Salad turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:
- Use fresh marshmallows for easier melting.
- When melting the marshmallows with milk, do so over low heat to avoid burning.
- Ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved in the mixture to prevent lumps.
- Allow the mixture to cool sufficiently before adding the whipped cream to maintain its fluffiness.
- Chill the salad for at least 4 hours to ensure it sets properly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Amish Lime Salad chilled, either as a dessert or a sweet side dish. It pairs well with a light main course, such as grilled chicken or fish, to balance its creaminess and sweetness.
Cooking Techniques
The key techniques in preparing Amish Lime Salad involve melting, mixing, and chilling. Gentle melting of the marshmallows and thorough mixing of the ingredients are crucial for a smooth texture. Proper chilling is essential for the salad to set correctly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Vegan marshmallows and almond milk can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Agar-agar can substitute gelatin for a vegetarian option.
- Greek yogurt can replace cream cheese for a tangier taste.
Make Ahead Tips
Amish Lime Salad can be made a day ahead and kept chilled in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up properly.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the salad in individual cups or glasses layered with crushed graham crackers for a deconstructed pie look. Garnish with lime slices or zest for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this salad with a crisp white wine, such as a Riesling or a Sauvignon Blanc, to complement its creamy and tangy flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As this dish is meant to be served cold, reheating is not applicable.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Amish Lime Salad contains approximately 250 calories. The majority of these calories come from the fats and carbohydrates in the dish.
Carbohydrates
A serving of Amish Lime Salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the marshmallows and crushed pineapple, which provide the salad's sweet flavor.
Fats
This dish contains about 15 grams of fat per serving, mainly from the cream cheese and salad dressing. While it is a bit high in fat content, it's the combination of these ingredients that gives the salad its creamy texture.
Proteins
Amish Lime Salad offers a modest protein content of about 5 grams per serving, primarily from the cream cheese and milk. While not a high-protein dish, it serves as a delightful dessert or side dish.
Vitamins and minerals
The salad provides small amounts of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the pineapple, which is a good source of Vitamin C and manganese. However, the amounts are not significant enough to contribute substantially to daily nutritional requirements.
Alergens
Key allergens in this recipe include dairy (from the milk, cream cheese, and whipped cream) and potential gluten from the marshmallows, depending on the brand used. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.
Summary
Overall, the Amish Lime Salad is a dessert that offers a balance of sweetness, creaminess, and tanginess. While it's not particularly high in vitamins, minerals, or protein, it provides a moderate amount of calories and a delightful taste experience.
Summary
The Amish Lime Salad is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, making it a perfect dessert or side dish for various occasions. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a testament to the Amish tradition of making delicious, uncomplicated food. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the variations, this salad is sure to be a hit.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Mary, who lived on a small farm in the heart of Amish country. As we sat at her kitchen table sipping lemonade, Mary pulled out a faded recipe card and began to read off the ingredients for what she called Amish Lime Salad.
I watched intently as she mixed together crushed pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, lime Jell-O, and whipped cream. It seemed like such an odd combination to me, but Mary assured me that it was a family favorite and always a hit at potlucks and gatherings.
As the salad chilled in the refrigerator, Mary shared with me the story of how she learned the recipe. She explained that her mother had passed it down to her, who had learned it from her own grandmother. It was a tradition that had been passed through the generations, and Mary was proud to carry on the legacy.
I was intrigued by the history and tradition behind the recipe, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Mary graciously offered to teach me, and we spent the afternoon in her kitchen, mixing and stirring, laughing and chatting.
The salad turned out perfectly, with just the right balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Mary smiled as we sat down to enjoy our creation, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.
Over the years, I continued to make Amish Lime Salad for family gatherings and special occasions. Each time I prepared it, I thought of Mary and our wonderful day in her kitchen. I felt a connection to the past and to the generations of women who had come before me, all sharing in the joy of creating something delicious to share with loved ones.
As time passed, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twist here and there. Sometimes I would use fresh lime juice instead of Jell-O, or swap out the whipped cream for Greek yogurt. Each variation brought a new depth of flavor to the dish, but the essence of the recipe remained the same.
I shared my version of Amish Lime Salad with friends and neighbors, and it became a beloved dish in my own circle of loved ones. I loved the way it brought people together, just as it had for generations before me.
As I grew older, I realized the importance of preserving these recipes and passing them down to future generations. I began to write down all of the recipes I had learned over the years, including the Amish Lime Salad recipe. I wanted my grandchildren to experience the same joy and connection that I had felt when learning to make this dish.
Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scents and sounds of cooking, I feel a sense of peace and contentment. The recipe for Amish Lime Salad is more than just a dish to me – it is a link to the past, a reminder of the love and tradition that have shaped my life.
I am grateful for Mary and the recipe she shared with me that day so long ago. I am grateful for the memories we created together, and for the bond that we formed over a simple salad. And most of all, I am grateful for the legacy that I am able to pass on to my own family, one recipe at a time.
Categories
| Amish Recipes | Amish Salads | Cream Cheese Recipes | Gelatin Dessert Mix Recipes | Heavy Cream Recipes | Marshmallow Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Pineapple Recipes | Prepared Salad Dressing Recipes |