Fruit Salad Surprise - Master Cookbook Recipe # 564
This is absolutely Tammy's favorite fruit salad! The "surprise" is how the cottage cheese and gelatin blend together to create a light, mousse-like texture that’s incredibly refreshing. With a hint of lemon and coconut extracts, this dish has a tropical flair that makes it a standout at any potluck or family gathering.
This is recipe #564 in Tammy’s Master Cookbook.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. small curd cottage cheese (2%)
- 8 oz. whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 3 oz. pkg lime-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- 15 oz. can fruit cocktail, drained
- 8 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained well
- 1/3 cup sweetened flaked coconut
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp lemon extract
- 1/4 tsp coconut extract
- Sugar sprinkles (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Create the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping, cottage cheese, salt, dry lime Jell-O packet, lemon extract, and coconut extract. Mix these together thoroughly until the color is even and the gelatin is well incorporated.
- Fold in Fruit: Add the drained fruit cocktail, well-drained crushed pineapple, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans (if using).
- Combine: Gently fold the fruit and nuts into the creamy base until everything is evenly distributed.
- Garnish and Chill: Top with sugar sprinkles if desired. For the best consistency, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to marry and the gelatin to set the salad.
Notes
Tammy's Tips
The extract is the secret ingredient that makes this so delicious,don't skip it! This recipe is also incredibly easy to customize for the holidays. Try using strawberry or cherry Jell-O with red sugar sprinkles for Christmas, or stick with the lime Jell-O and green sprinkles for a festive Saint Patrick’s Day treat. It's a "must-try" that always disappears fast!