Cranberry Salad Recipe

Looking for the perfect dish to elevate your holiday feast? This Cranberry Salad Recipe is a show-stopping side dish or dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious. Made with fresh cranberries, juicy grapes, crisp apples, fluffy marshmallows, and whipped cream, it’s a blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy textures everyone will adore. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy winter dinner, this easy-to-make recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Add crunch with chopped walnuts for a delightful finish!

This refreshing and creamy Cranberry Salad is a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors, making it an ideal side dish or dessert for any occasion. With juicy cranberries, crisp apples, sweet grapes, and marshmallows, all folded into fluffy whipped cream with a crunch of walnuts, this salad is sure to impress your guests.

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Ingredients

• 3 cups fresh or thawed frozen cranberries
• 1 cup green grapes, halved
• 2 cups miniature marshmallows
• 1 medium apple, chopped
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit Mixture:
   In a large bowl, combine the cranberries, halved grapes, marshmallows, chopped apple, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well to coat the fruits evenly.
2. Chill the Mixture:
   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the sugar to dissolve.
3. Whip the Cream:
   Using a handheld mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   Gently fold the whipped cream and chopped walnuts into the chilled fruit mixture until evenly combined.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately, or keep it chilled until ready to serve.

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Tips

• For extra tartness, use fresh cranberries instead of frozen.
• Make sure the whipped cream is at stiff peaks for the best texture.
• Chill the salad overnight for enhanced flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts for a nut-free version.
• Alternative Sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
• Add a Twist: Include orange zest or diced pineapple for a citrusy flavor.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This cranberry salad is perfect for prepping a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

2. What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?
You can use store-bought whipped topping as a substitute, but the texture may differ slightly.

3. Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the fruit and whipped cream may change after thawing.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve this salad as a side dish for Thanksgiving or holiday dinners.
• Pair it with roasted turkey, ham, or chicken for a delightful contrast.
• Enjoy it as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time with simple ingredients.
• Versatile: Great as a side dish or dessert.
• Festive Flavor: A perfect combination of tart cranberries, sweet fruits, and fluffy cream.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike!

This Cranberry Salad is a delightful addition to your holiday table or any special occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!