The holiday season often calls for special recipes that bring comfort and joy to the dining table. One such delightful treat is the Cranberry Millionaire Salad, a light, flavorful dish that perfectly blends the tanginess of cranberries with the rich textures of other ingredients, offering an ideal balance of taste and nutrition.
Step 1: Gathering Your Ingredients
Before diving into the creation of this scrumptious salad, ensure you have the following on hand:
- 1 cup of fresh cranberries, rinsed and patted dry
- 1 cup of crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup of mini marshmallows
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1⁄2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1⁄2 cup of chopped pecans
- 1⁄2 cup of sour cream
Step 2: Preparing the Cranberries
Begin by finely chopping the cranberries. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the cranberries on a cutting board.
- Use a sharp knife to chop them into small pieces, ensuring they are evenly cut to release their flavor effectively.
🔪 Note: For a smoother texture, some choose to pulse the cranberries in a food processor, but be careful not to overdo it to maintain a slight crunch.
Step 3: Mixing the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Chopped cranberries
- Crushed pineapple
- Mini marshmallows
- Chopped pecans
Stir well to mix these ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Whipping the Cream
Now, it’s time to whip up some magic:
- Pour the heavy cream into a chilled mixing bowl.
- Beat on medium speed until stiff peaks form, ensuring not to over-whip.
- Gently fold in the granulated sugar until well combined.
🥛 Note: Whipped cream can be a versatile element in your cooking arsenal. For the best results, use cold cream and bowls, and avoid overbeating to keep the cream fluffy.
Step 5: Creating the Salad
Here’s where it all comes together:
- Fold the whipped cream mixture into the cranberry mixture until everything is evenly coated.
- Add the sour cream to this blend to give your salad a creamy texture and a slight tang.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Let your salad chill in the refrigerator:
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Allow it to chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor infusion.
❄️ Note: Chilling not only allows the flavors to develop but also helps in setting the cream for a better consistency when serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving:
- Gently stir the salad to ensure the cream has not separated.
- Scoop into serving dishes or bowls, garnishing with extra pecans or a sprinkle of cranberries for a pop of color and flavor.
With its vibrant red hue from the cranberries and the delightful taste, Cranberry Millionaire Salad is a celebration of holiday flavors. Its simplicity in preparation combined with the luxury of its ingredients makes it an exquisite choice for your festive gatherings, ensuring a memorable meal for all.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
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Yes, this salad can be prepared up to a day in advance. The flavors will meld together, enhancing the taste.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
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Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess water before chopping.
What can I substitute for pecans?
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You can use walnuts, almonds, or even leave out nuts for an allergen-friendly version.
