There is a little bit of nostalgia stirred into each of theses yummy Jello recipes. Whether it’s a fun salad or a dignified mold, Jello is sure to put a smile on your face! Pick one of these fun treats to make today.
Jello salads, love them or hate them, these wiggly, jiggly creations have been a staple at potlucks and family gatherings for generations. There is just something so satisfying about the wobbly texture and sweet, fruity flavor.
The History of Jello Salads
The concept of combining gelatin with other ingredients like fruit or veggies and serving it as a salad dates back to the 1950s, when the convenience of instant jello mixes made it easy for homemakers to whip up quick, fun desserts and side dishes.
As the decades went on, the popularity of jello salads has gone up and down. We just love their retro charm.
We think it is time for a comeback. Not only are they nostalgic and fun, but they are also surprisingly versatile.
Tips for Making Gelatin Salads:
Keep it simple: the beauty of jello salads is their simplicity. All it takes is some gelatin, some fruit, and maybe some nuts or whipped cream. Don’t overcomplicate the recipe.
Experiment with fruits: While classic recipes usually feature canned fruit like mandarin oranges or pineapple, don’t be afraid to try fresh berries, sliced peaches, or even diced mango. Just use a little less liquid in the recipe to account for the moisture in the fruit.
Don’t use fresh pineapple. Enzymes in pineapple can keep the jello from setting properly. The heat in the canning process inactivates the enzymes and allows the gelatin to set properly
Play with presentation: Jello salads can be molded into fun shapes. A bundt pan works as a great jello mold, or make jello in individual cups for a fun and easy presentation.
The next time you are looking for a fun and easy dessert or fruit salad, give one of these Jello recipes a try. You may just be surprised at how much you like it!
