Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad

Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad Recipe from California with Pretzels and Cream Cheese

Region / culture: California | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the crunchiness of pretzels. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, as it is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

History

The origins of Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad are a bit unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. This recipe became popular as a sweet and savory side dish or dessert at picnics and family gatherings.

Ingredients

2 cups crushed pretzels
0.5 – 1 cup melted butter
3 tbsp sugar
1 package Dream Whip (prepared as directed on package)
1 (8 oz (227 g)) package cream cheese, softened
0.75 cup sugar
1 package strawberry jell-o gelatin dessert (prepared as directed on package)
1 package frozen strawberries, thawed

How to prepare

In a bowl, mix pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tbsp of sugar.
Press the mixture into a 13 x 9 inches pan and bake for 10 minutes at 350°F. Allow it to cool.
In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese and 0.75 cup of sugar. Then, add the prepared Dream Whip.
Pour the cream cheese mixture on top of the crust and chill.
Prepare Jell-O as directed on the package and let it partially set. Then, add strawberries.
Pour the Jell-O mixture over the cream cheese layer and chill until it is completely jelled.
Cut into squares.

Variations

Use different flavored gelatin desserts, such as raspberry or cherry, for a different twist.
Add chopped nuts or coconut flakes to the pretzel crust for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to crush the pretzels finely to create a solid crust for the salad.

- Allow the Jell-O mixture to partially set before adding the strawberries to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

- Chill the salad for at least a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad chilled as a dessert or side dish at summer barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to bake the pretzel crust before adding the cream cheese mixture to ensure a crunchy base.

- Allow the Jell-O mixture to partially set before adding the strawberries to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use graham crackers or crushed cookies instead of pretzels for the crust.

- Substitute fresh strawberries for frozen if they are in season.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad in individual glass dishes or parfait cups for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, such as chicken or pork, for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the texture may become soggy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is a good source of Vitamin C from the strawberries.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese) and gluten (pretzels), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad is a delicious dessert that is relatively low in protein and high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a sweet treat.

Summary

Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad is a delicious and refreshing dessert that is perfect for summer gatherings. With its sweet strawberry flavor, crunchy pretzel crust, and creamy cream cheese layer, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in the countryside. My aunt was known for her delicious and inventive recipes, and she always had a new dish to share with us whenever we came to visit.

One summer afternoon, my aunt invited me into her kitchen to help her prepare a special dessert for dinner. She pulled out a large box of strawberry-flavored Jello and a can of crushed pineapple, along with some chopped walnuts and mini marshmallows. I watched in awe as she mixed everything together in a big bowl, creating a colorful and enticing mixture that smelled like summer.

As we waited for the Jello to set in the fridge, my aunt told me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who used to make it for family gatherings and picnics. The combination of sweet strawberries, tangy pineapple, crunchy walnuts, and soft marshmallows was a hit with everyone who tried it, and it quickly became a family favorite.

I was fascinated by the idea of a recipe being passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own. My aunt encouraged me to experiment with different ingredients and flavors, to make the recipe my own and create new memories with my own family someday.

Over the years, I have made this Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad countless times, adapting it to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have added fresh berries and citrus fruits, swapped out the marshmallows for coconut flakes, and even turned it into a frozen treat by pouring it into popsicle molds.

Each time I make this salad, I am reminded of that summer afternoon in my aunt's kitchen, learning about the power of tradition and the joy of creating something delicious to share with loved ones. I am grateful for the recipe that has been passed down through my family, connecting me to the past and inspiring me to continue the legacy of home cooking.

As I prepare the Crunchy Strawberry Jello Salad for yet another family gathering, I think about the generations of women who have lovingly prepared this dish before me. I feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the culinary heritage that has shaped me into the cook I am today.

And as I take a bite of the sweet, tangy, crunchy salad, I am filled with a sense of contentment and joy, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that has brought so much happiness to my family for so many years. I may not know where this recipe originated or who first created it, but I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with my loved ones and create new memories that will last a lifetime.