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orange jello salad

Classic Orange Jello Salad

A refreshing and bright orange jello salad that combines creamy textures with juicy mandarin oranges for a perfect summer dessert or side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Fruit Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 132
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Gelatin Base
  • 1 package (3 oz) orange-flavored gelatin
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 1 cup cottage cheese small curd recommended
  • 1 cup mandarin orange segments drained
  • 1/2 cup whipped topping thawed if frozen
  • 1/4 cup miniature marshmallows optional
Optional Add-ins and Garnishes
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut optional
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest optional, for enhanced flavor
  • 2-3 sprigs fresh mint leaves for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Serving dish or individual dessert cups

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, dissolve the orange-flavored gelatin in boiling water, stirring continuously for 2 minutes until completely dissolved.
  2. Add the cold water to the dissolved gelatin and mix well.
  3. Refrigerate the gelatin mixture for approximately 1 hour or until partially set (consistency should be similar to unbeaten egg whites).
  4. In a separate large bowl, gently combine the cottage cheese, drained mandarin orange segments, whipped topping, and marshmallows if using.
  5. Once the gelatin has reached the partially set stage, remove it from the refrigerator and fold it gently into the cottage cheese mixture until evenly combined.
  6. If using any optional ingredients like nuts, coconut, or orange zest, fold them in now with a few gentle strokes.
  7. Transfer the completed orange jello salad to a decorative serving dish or individual serving cups.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely set.
  9. Before serving, garnish with additional mandarin slices, a dollop of whipped topping, or fresh mint leaves if desired.

Notes

  • For best results, make this salad a day ahead to allow flavors to fully develop.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the cottage cheese before adding it to the mixture.
  • To make perfect individual servings, pour into dessert cups before refrigerating the final time.
  • For a lighter version, use sugar-free gelatin and light versions of the dairy components.