Description

If you grew up in the Midwest or attended a family potluck, chances are you've enjoyed the sweet and fluffy delight of Mandarin Orange Jello Salad. This retro-inspired dessert salad is made with just a handful of pantry staples—orange Jell-O, creamy whipped topping, crushed pineapple, cottage cheese (or cream cheese), and juicy mandarin oranges.

It’s bright, citrusy, and perfectly creamy with a hint of tang. It comes together in minutes and can be made ahead, making it an ideal no-bake dessert for summer cookouts, Easter dinners, Thanksgiving tables, or whenever you're craving a nostalgic sweet treat.

---

Ingredients

(Serves 8–10)

• 1 (3 oz) box orange Jell-O (gelatin mix)
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 cup small curd cottage cheese (or substitute 8 oz softened cream cheese for a smoother texture)
• 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
• Optional: ½ cup mini marshmallows

---

Instructions

1. Mix the Jell-O and cottage cheese:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange Jell-O powder with the cottage cheese. Stir until the powder is fully blended into the cottage cheese.
2. Add the fruit:
   Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple. If you’re using mini marshmallows, fold them in now.
3. Add whipped topping:
   Gently fold in the Cool Whip until everything is combined and the salad is creamy and fluffy.
4. Chill:
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving, or until firm and well-chilled.
5. Serve:
   Spoon into bowls or serve in a trifle dish. Garnish with extra mandarin slices or a sprinkle of mini marshmallows if desired.

---

Nutrition (approx. per serving)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Fat: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Sugar: 23 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Sodium: 125 mg

Nutrition will vary slightly depending on ingredients and substitutions.

---

Tips & Tricks

• Make it ahead: This salad can be made the day before and chilled overnight—just give it a quick stir before serving.
• Smoother texture: Swap cottage cheese for cream cheese if you prefer a silky texture.
• Add color: A sprinkle of orange zest or maraschino cherries on top makes it extra festive.
• Turn it into dessert cups: Portion the salad into small individual dessert cups for a beautiful presentation at showers or brunches.
• Use sugar-free Jell-O and light Cool Whip for a lower-calorie version.

---

From Me to Your Readers

There’s something so special about Mandarin Orange Jello Salad—it’s simple, nostalgic, and guaranteed to draw smiles. Whether you’re recreating a family favorite or discovering it for the first time, this recipe is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or even the holiday table. For your food blog, this salad fits perfectly into categories like:

• “Retro Recipes That Deserve a Comeback”
• “Easy No-Bake Desserts”
• “Old-Fashioned Holiday Favorites”
• “Summer Potluck Winners”

Want to elevate it even more? Try folding in a few tablespoons of instant vanilla pudding powder for a thicker, pudding-like twist!