The holiday season brings with it a plethora of delightful dishes and festive flavors.
Among the classics that grace our tables, the Pioneer Woman Cranberry Salad stands out as a refreshing and vibrant addition.
Created by the renowned food blogger and cookbook author Ree Drummond, this recipe beautifully combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple and whipped cream.
Let’s delve into the details of this mouthwatering dish that has become a staple at holiday gatherings.
Recipe of Pioneer Woman Cranberry Salad:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Cranberries: Start by thoroughly washing the fresh cranberries and removing any stems. Place them in a food processor and pulse until they are finely chopped but not pureed.
Sweeten the Cranberries: Transfer the chopped cranberries to a large mixing bowl and add granulated sugar. Stir well to ensure the sugar coats the cranberries evenly. Allow this mixture to sit for about 30 minutes, allowing the cranberries to macerate and the sugar to dissolve.
Add Pineapple and Marshmallows: Once the cranberries have macerated, gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and miniature marshmallows. The pineapple adds a tropical sweetness, while the marshmallows contribute a soft and pillowy texture to the salad.
Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to whip. The sweetened whipped cream adds a light and airy element to the salad.
Combine and Chill: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cranberry mixture, ensuring an even distribution. If desired, add chopped pecans and shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. Once combined, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least two hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give the cranberry salad a gentle stir. Spoon it into a festive serving dish and garnish with additional pecans or coconut if desired. The result is a vibrant, flavorful salad that beautifully balances the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple and the richness of whipped cream.
Benefits of Pioneer Woman Cranberry Salad:
Vibrant Flavor Profile: Pioneer Woman’s Cranberry Salad offers a delightful explosion of flavors. The tartness of fresh cranberries combines harmoniously with the tropical sweetness of crushed pineapple.
The addition of miniature marshmallows, whipped cream, and optional ingredients like pecans and coconut contribute to a well-balanced taste that is both refreshing and indulgent. This vibrant flavor profile makes the cranberry salad a standout dish on any holiday table.
Texture Harmony: The recipe ingeniously incorporates various textures, creating a pleasing contrast in every bite. The finely chopped cranberries provide a slight crunch, while the pineapple adds a juicy and chewy element.
The miniature marshmallows contribute a soft and airy texture, and if you choose to include pecans and coconut, they provide a satisfying crunch. This thoughtful combination of textures enhances the overall eating experience.
Simple and Time-Efficient Preparation: One of the notable benefits of Pioneer Woman’s Cranberry Salad is its straightforward and time-efficient preparation. The recipe utilizes easily accessible ingredients and doesn’t require complex cooking techniques.
The most time-consuming step is allowing the cranberries to macerate in sugar, but this process enhances the flavor while requiring minimal hands-on effort. With simple instructions and common kitchen ingredients, this cranberry salad is a convenient addition to any holiday menu.
Make-Ahead Convenience: The cranberry salad’s make-ahead nature is a practical advantage, especially during the busy holiday season. After preparing the dish, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight is recommended.
This not only allows the flavors to meld but also enables you to get a head start on your holiday meal preparations. The ability to make it in advance adds flexibility to your schedule, making entertaining and hosting stress-free.
Versatile Serving Options: Pioneer Woman’s Cranberry Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you choose to present it as a refreshing side dish alongside a holiday turkey or ham or serve it as a standalone dessert, the cranberry salad complements a range of meals.
Its festive appearance also makes it an attractive addition to potluck dinners or gatherings, adding a pop of color to the table and enticing guests with its delicious blend of flavors.
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Nutrition Facts of Pioneer Woman Cranberry Salad:
It’s important to note that providing exact nutrition facts for a specific recipe can be challenging without specific quantities and serving sizes.
However, I can offer a general overview of the potential nutritional components in Pioneer Woman’s Cranberry Salad based on typical ingredients used in similar recipes.
Please keep in mind that these values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.
Pioneer Woman Cranberry Salad – Approximate Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories:
- The calorie content can vary, but on average, a serving may provide around 200-300 calories. The majority of calories typically come from sugars and fats present in ingredients like marshmallows, whipped cream, and coconut (if included).
Protein:
- A serving may contain around 1-2 grams of protein. The primary sources of protein in this salad are likely to be from whipped cream and any nuts included (such as pecans).
Carbohydrates:
- Carbohydrates are a significant component, with a serving containing approximately 30-40 grams. The cranberries, pineapple, marshmallows, and any added sugars contribute to the carbohydrate content.
Sugars:
- Given the sweet nature of the salad, sugars can be relatively high, ranging from 20-30 grams per serving. The natural sugars from cranberries and pineapple, combined with added sugars in marshmallows and whipped cream, contribute to this total.
Fat:
- The fat content can vary, but a serving may contain around 10-15 grams of fat. Whipped cream and any nuts or coconut are likely sources of fat in the salad.
Fiber:
- The salad may provide a small amount of dietary fiber, approximately 1-2 grams per serving, mainly from the cranberries.
Vitamins and Minerals:
- The cranberries contribute to the vitamin C content, and there may be small amounts of other vitamins and minerals from ingredients like pineapple, nuts, and coconut.
It’s essential to adjust these estimates based on the specific quantities and brands of ingredients used in your preparation. Additionally, individual dietary needs and preferences may vary, so it’s advisable to consult with a nutritionist or use a nutritional calculator for precise values based on your recipe.
Conclusion:
Pioneer Woman’s Cranberry Salad is a testament to the joy of combining simple, fresh ingredients to create a dish that not only delights the taste buds but also adds a burst of color to the holiday table.
Whether served alongside a festive feast or enjoyed on its own, this recipe has become a beloved tradition for many, embodying the spirit of togetherness and celebration that defines the holiday season.
Try it for yourself and savor the perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors that make this cranberry salad a timeless classic.