Lime Green Jello Salad with Cottage Cheese & Pineapple

This Lime Green Jello Salad with Cottage Cheese & Pineapple is a nostalgic, creamy, and fruity dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors with a wonderfully smooth texture. It’s a refreshing side that works beautifully for potlucks, holiday dinners, or a unique dessert option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to throw together with just a few ingredients and minimal effort. It’s light, yet satisfying, and the bright green color adds a pop of fun to any table spread. The combination of lime jello, cottage cheese, and pineapple is a surprising treat—slightly tart, perfectly sweet, and wonderfully creamy. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that gets better as it chills, making it ideal for prepping ahead.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lime gelatin (Jell-O)

• Boiling water

• Crushed pineapple (with juice)

• Cottage cheese

• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Directions

1. I dissolve the lime gelatin in boiling water, stirring until it’s completely dissolved.

2. I let it cool slightly—just enough that it’s not piping hot.

3. I stir in the crushed pineapple with its juice and mix well.

4. Then I add the cottage cheese and gently fold in the whipped topping.

5. I pour the mixture into a dish or mold and refrigerate it for several hours, or until fully set.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 8 people. It takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and needs at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator, though I often make it the night before to let the flavors meld even more.

Variations

I sometimes use orange or strawberry gelatin for a twist in flavor, and they pair just as well with the pineapple and cottage cheese. For more texture, I occasionally add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. If I’m in the mood for something richer, I stir in a bit of cream cheese for added creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture tends to change. Since it’s a cold dish, there’s no need for reheating—just scoop and enjoy straight from the fridge.

FAQs

What type of cottage cheese works best for this salad?

I prefer using small curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture, but large curd works if I like more bite.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

I stick with canned crushed pineapple because fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can prevent gelatin from setting properly.

Can I make this jello salad ahead of time?

Yes, I always make it a day ahead so it has plenty of time to chill and the flavors can blend beautifully.

Is there a way to make this salad lighter?

I use low-fat cottage cheese and light whipped topping to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.

What can I serve with lime green jello salad?

I like serving it alongside roast meats, at holiday meals, or with other retro-style side dishes. It also works as a light dessert.

Conclusion

Lime Green Jello Salad with Cottage Cheese & Pineapple is a classic that brings a little retro flair and a lot of flavor to any table. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. I make it whenever I want something unique, refreshing, and a little bit fun.

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