Mandarin Orange Jello Salad
This light and refreshing fruit salad brings back memories of childhood with every bite! Check out the recipe to see how easy it is to make!
Ingredients
- 1 pkg Orange Gelatin 3 oz
- 1 pkg Instant Vanilla Pudding mix 3.4 oz, (provides a creamier, "creamsicle" base)
- 1 can Mandarin Oranges 11 oz, drained well
- 1 cup Boiling Water
- ½ cup Cold Water
- 2 cups Whipped Topping thawed
- 2 cups Miniature Marshmallows
- 1 tsp Fresh Orange Zest the secret to a vibrant, fresh citrus aroma
- ½ cup Toasted Slivered Almonds replaces or adds to the fruit for a nutty crunch
- A dash of Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk the orange gelatin and boiling water until the powder is completely dissolved. Stir in the cold water and the vanilla extract.
- Whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the mixture begins to slightly thicken.
- Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. You want the mixture to be "soft-set"—slightly jiggly but not firm. This prevents the heavier ingredients from sinking to the bottom.
- Stir in the fresh orange zest. This small addition provides the "bright" acidity that balances the sugar in the pudding and marshmallows.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until no white streaks remain. Carefully fold in the drained mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and toasted almonds. Using a rubber spatula helps keep the oranges from breaking apart.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the marshmallows to soften slightly and the flavors to fully marry.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!