Very Berry Fluffy Salad

This fluffy berry salad combines the creamy richness of cottage cheese with sweet tropical pineapple and tangy berries for a refreshing treat that works equally well as a side dish or light dessert. The gelatin adds a wonderful mousse-like texture while the freeze-dried strawberries infuse vibrant color and intense berry flavor throughout.

I first created this recipe for a summer potluck when I needed something that wouldn't wilt in the heat. It was such a hit that it's now requested at every family gathering from Easter brunch to Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

• Shamrock Farms Original Cottage Cheese 24 ounces: The higher fat content creates a richer mouthfeel and better texture in the final dish
• Honey 1/3 cup: Provides natural sweetness that complements the berries without being overpowering
• Canned crushed pineapple 20 ounces: Select pineapple packed in juice rather than syrup for better flavor balance
• Unflavored gelatin powder 5 teaspoons: This is the secret to the fluffy stable texture that holds up beautifully
• Freeze dried strawberries 1 ounce package: These concentrate intense strawberry flavor and create the gorgeous pink color throughout
• Heavy whipping cream 1 cup: Use cold cream straight from the refrigerator for the best volume when whipping
• Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon: Adds depth and enhances the berry flavors
• Frozen raspberries 3 cups: Keep these frozen until the last minute for the best texture and to prevent bleeding color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base:

Drain your crushed pineapple carefully through a mesh strainer saving exactly 1/2 cup of the juice for later use. In a large mixing bowl combine the drained crushed pineapple with honey and cottage cheese until evenly mixed. The cottage cheese provides structure while the pineapple adds natural sweetness and texture.

Activate the Gelatin:

Measure the reserved 1/2 cup pineapple juice into a small microwave safe bowl and sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the surface. Allow it to bloom for 30 seconds before microwaving until it just begins to boil about 45 seconds. Watch it closely as it can foam up quickly. Stir thoroughly to ensure every granule of gelatin dissolves completely then immediately pour into the cottage cheese mixture while still hot. Stir to incorporate fully this will help set the proper texture.

Create the Berry Flavor Base:

Place the freeze dried strawberries in a food processor and pulse until they become a fine powder with intense color and flavor. Add this vibrant powder to your cottage cheese mixture and stir well to distribute evenly. The freeze dried berries will begin to absorb moisture creating pockets of concentrated strawberry goodness throughout.

Incorporate Air and Berries:

In a separate chilled bowl whip the heavy cream and vanilla until stiff peaks form this should take 2 to 3 minutes depending on your mixer speed. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cottage cheese mixture using a large spatula with a sweeping motion from bottom to top. Be careful not to deflate the air you've incorporated. Finally fold in the still frozen raspberries which will keep their shape and create beautiful pockets of berry flavor throughout.

Set and Serve:

Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or individual dishes and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until set. The texture will firm up beautifully during this time allowing for clean serving. If desired garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves just before bringing to the table.

pin it

The freeze dried strawberries are truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. I discovered them after a disappointing attempt using fresh strawberries which released too much liquid and created an uneven texture. The concentrated flavor from freeze dried berries gives that punch of summer strawberry taste regardless of season.

Storage Solutions

This fluffy salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The gelatin stabilizes the mixture preventing weeping or separation that often happens with cream based desserts. For best presentation serve it within the first 24 hours when the colors remain most vibrant and the texture at its peak fluffiness. If you notice any liquid collecting at the bottom after storage simply fold it gently back into the mixture before serving.

Seasonal Variations

While this recipe uses frozen raspberries which are available year round you can customize this salad based on seasonal availability. In summer substitute half the raspberries with fresh blueberries or blackberries for a farmers market inspired treat. During fall try folding in diced apple with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a harvest version. Winter holidays call for pomegranate arils which add beautiful jewel tones and a pleasant crunch. The base remains the same while the mix ins change with the seasons keeping this recipe in rotation all year.

Dietary Adaptations

Though rich and creamy in its original form this recipe can be adapted for different dietary needs. For a lighter version substitute 2% cottage cheese and light whipped topping instead of heavy cream. Those watching sugar intake can reduce the honey to 2 tablespoons and use pineapple packed in juice rather than syrup. For a lactose sensitive option lactose free cottage cheese works perfectly with coconut cream as a whipping alternative. The gelatin is essential for structure but vegetarians can substitute agar agar powder using the same quantity following package directions for activation.

pin it

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy richness and fruity sweetness, making it an instant favorite for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prepare the pineapple properly?

Strain the canned crushed pineapple and reserve 1/2 cup of its juice for mixing with the gelatin. This enhances the flavor and texture.

→ What’s the best way to dissolve gelatin powder?

Mix the gelatin powder with the reserved pineapple juice and microwave it for about 45 seconds until it boils. Stir well to completely dissolve the gelatin.

→ How can I get the perfect whipped cream consistency?

Whip heavy cream and vanilla extract with a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

→ Can I substitute freeze-dried strawberries?

Yes, you can replace them with fresh strawberries, but they must be pureed or finely chopped to distribute evenly.

→ How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?

Refrigerate the salad for 1-2 hours to allow it to set properly and enhance its chilled, creamy texture.