Pear Green Jello "Salad"
This nostalgic "salad" is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors. It combines lime Jell-O with mashed pears, folded into a light and creamy mixture of softened cream cheese and whipped cream. The result is a smooth, jiggly, and refreshing dessert or side dish, perfect for a retro gathering or a simple, comforting treat.
Equipment
- 2 Mixing Bowls One large for Jell-O, one medium for cream cheese
- 1 Whisk For Jell-O and cream cheese
- 1 Spatula For folding ingredients gently
- 1 Potato masher or fork For mashing pears
- 1 Serving Dish or Mold For chilling and presentation
Ingredients
Main
- 1 packet lime jello
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 small can pears drained and mashed
- 2 packages of cream cheese softened
- 1/2 pint whip cream
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve the lime Jell-O packet completely in 1 cup of hot water, stirring until no granules remain. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
- Drain the small can of pears well and mash them thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth.
- In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is light and fluffy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Gently fold the mashed pears into the beaten cream cheese until just combined.
- In another bowl, whip the 1/2 pint of heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Once the Jell-O has cooled and begun to thicken slightly (it should still be pourable but not liquid), carefully fold it into the cream cheese and pear mixture.
- Finally, very gently fold the whipped cream into the Jell-O and cream cheese-pear mixture until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Pour the entire mixture into a desired serving dish or mold.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the "salad" is completely set and firm.
- Serve chilled.
Notes
For optimal texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth consistency; a stand mixer or hand mixer can aid in creaming it. Gently fold in the whipped cream to maintain its airy volume, which contributes to the "salad's" lightness. To elevate the flavor profile, a small amount of lime zest can brighten the jello, or a pinch of salt can balance the sweetness. For a textural contrast, consider incorporating finely chopped toasted walnuts or pecans into the cream cheese mixture before folding. Adequate chilling time is paramount for the Jell-O to set properly and allow the flavors to meld. Consider using a decorative mold for an enhanced presentation.