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Aunt Myrna’s Party Cheese Salad Recipe

Every family has that one recipe that seems to emerge at all the gatherings, beloved and requested — Aunt Myrna’s Party Cheese Salad is just that dish.

A blend of creamy cheese, crunchy nuts, and sweet fruit, this salad quickly becomes the talk of any event.

Its ability to cross the lines between a side dish and a dessert makes it a versatile choice for any festive table.

Adaptable to a variety of ingredients, the recipe allows for creative twists, making it possible for you to put a personal stamp on a tried-and-true favorite.

The beauty of Aunt Myrna’s Party Cheese Salad lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity.

How to Make Aunt Myrna’s Party Cheese Salad

aunt myrnas party cheese salad recipe

Aunt Myrna’s Party Cheese Salad is a creamy salad that balances taste and texture for a delightful dish perfect for any gathering.

This recipe guides you in preparing a savory egg dish that functions as a tasty side dish or refreshing dessert.

Ingredients List

  • Cheese Mixture:
    • 8 oz package of cream cheese, softened
    • 1 cup mayonnaise
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
  • Salad Mixture:
    • 1 small can of crushed pineapple, drained
    • 1 can of fruit cocktail, drained
    • 1 jar of maraschino cherries, drained and halved
    • 1 cup miniature marshmallows
    • 1 package of lemon gelatin (3 oz)
  • Garnish (optional):
    • Additional maraschino cherries
    • A sprinkle of chopped nuts

Step-by-step process

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Base

In a saucepan, dissolve the package of lemon gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water.

Stir the mixture for around 2-3 minutes over medium heat until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese

On a cutting board, chop the nuts and set them aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until the mixture becomes smooth.

Step 3: Combine Cheese and Gelatin

Gradually fold the room-temperature gelatin into the cheese mixture until fully incorporated.

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and prepared nuts.

Step 4: Add the Fruits

To the cheese and gelatin mixture, gently add the drained pineapple, fruit cocktail, maraschino cherries, and miniature marshmallows.

Ensure the fruits and marshmallows are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Chill the Salad

Transfer the mixture to a serving dish, spreading it out evenly.

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or until it is firmly set.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, decorate the top of the salad with additional maraschino cherries and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flair.

Serve chilled as a yummy dish that will stand out among other exceptional dishes at your party.

Aunt Myrna’s Party Cheese Salad Side Dishes

When you prepare Aunt Myrna’s Party Cheese Salad, selecting the perfect side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience.

Here are some ideal companions for this rich and flavorful salad.

Garlic Bread

A simple yet delicious garlic bread offers a pleasing texture contrast to the creamy cheese salad.

The sharpness of garlic complements the salad’s tanginess, and you can easily toast the bread to add a satisfying crunch.

Seasonal Fruit Plate

Pair your cheese salad with a vibrant array of seasonal fruits.

The natural sweetness and acidity of fruits like grapes, apple slices, and strawberries can balance the savory notes of the cheese salad.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, lend an earthy element to your meal.

The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars, providing a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the cheese salad.

Sliced Baguette

Offer a fresh, crisp baguette on the side.

Its neutral flavor and firm structure make it an excellent vehicle for the salad, ensuring you can savor every bite without overpowering the main dish.

Mixed Nuts

For an added crunch, serve a bowl of mixed nuts.

Almonds, walnuts, or pecans can offer a pleasant textural contrast and a nutty flavor that enhances the depth of the party cheese salad.

By choosing one or more of these side dishes, you can create a well-rounded and delightful meal that beautifully complements Aunt Myrna’s Party Cheese Salad.

Ingredients Substitutes

American Cheese

You can use sharp cheddar cheese to replace American cheese for enhanced flavor.

High-quality cheddar cheese will contribute to the richness and provide a more profound taste profile that complements the salad’s creamy texture.

Creamy Cheese

If the recipe calls for creamy cheese and you prefer a different texture or flavor, consider a package of cream cheese.

Its smooth consistency ensures the salad maintains a desirable creamy texture.

Cream Cheese Packet

Should you need an alternative to a cream cheese packet, extra cheese, like grated cheddar or even a blend, offers varied texture and a boost in flavor.

Ensure the distribution of ingredients is even for consistent taste throughout the salad.

Grated Cheddar Cheese

In place of grated cheddar, a mix of cheese that includes different varieties of nutrient-rich ingredients, such as Gouda or Havarti, can offer a unique twist while still providing good-quality taste.

Lemon or Lime Jell-O Powder

For a change from lemon or lime Jell-O powder, you could opt for fresh lemon or lime zest.

This provides a fresh tanginess and preserves the nutritious ingredients aspect of the salad, while simple ingredients like fresh citrus can elevate the flavor profile.

Remember to keep the distribution of these substitutes similar to that of the original ingredients to maintain the balance in taste and texture.

How To Store Aunt Myrna’s Party Cheese Salad

Refrigeration

Ensure your salad is in an airtight container before placing it in the refrigerator.

This keeps the cheese salad fresh and prevents it from absorbing other food odors.

It’s best to store it in a beautiful glass bowl with a tight-fitting lid to maintain its presentation for future servings.

Freezing

For long-term storage, you can freeze Aunt Myrna’s party cheese salad.

Use a freezer-safe container or wrap the salad tightly in freezer wrap or a heavy-duty aluminum foil.

Remember, freezing may alter the texture, so it’s more suitable for salads that don’t contain mayonnaise or other ingredients that may separate when thawed.

Serving

When serving your salad at gatherings, keep it in a salad bowl and avoid leaving it out for more than two hours to prevent spoilage.

If the room temperature is warm, consider placing your communal bowl over a bed of ice to keep the cheese salad cool.

After Gatherings

Post-gathering, transfer any leftovers immediately to a clean container and store as recommended above.

Don’t let the cheese salad sit out in a warm bowl akin to a bowl of soup, which could encourage bacterial growth.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Choosing the Wrong Bell Pepper

When selecting bell peppers for your Aunt Myrna’s party cheese salad, opt for a mix of colors to add visual appeal.

Using only green bell peppers can leave the dish lacking in vibrancy.

  • Variety is key: Aim for a mix that includes red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, not just one cup of diced green bell pepper.

Overprocessing Ingredients

While preparing the salad, take care to roughly chop the vegetables.

Overusing the food processor can turn your ingredients into a mushy mixture, detracting from the salad’s texture.

  • Texture matters: Use short pulses and check frequently to ensure you maintain some chunkiness.

Dressing Distribution

Applying the dressing evenly is crucial, as it ensures each bite is flavorful.

A common mistake is adding the dressing in haste, leading to uneven flavors throughout the party cheese salad.

  • Even coating: Toss the salad with care, using a flat or wooden spoon for uniform distribution.

Neglecting Dressing Quality

Your dressing choice can make or break the recipe.

The secret dressing sets the tone and binds the flavors together.

  • Choose wisely: A zesty or tangy Italian dressing is preferred.
    Avoid bland or overly creamy dressings that can overpower the salad.

Remember, each step contributes to the final experience of your beloved family or food community gatherings.

aunt myrnas party cheese salad recipe

Aunt Myrna's Party Cheese Salad Recipe

Every family has that one recipe that seems to emerge at all the gatherings, beloved and requested — Aunt Myrna's Party Cheese Salad is just that dish. 
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Ingredients
  
Cheese Mixture
  • 8 oz Package of cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Salad Mixture
  • 1 Small can of crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 can Fruit cocktail, drained
  • 1 jar Maraschino cherries, drained and halved
  • 1 cup Miniature marshmallows
  • 1 Package of lemon gelatin (3 oz)
Garnish (optional):
  • Additional maraschino cherries
  • A sprinkle of chopped nuts
Instructions
 
  • In a saucepan, dissolve the package of lemon gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water.
    Stir the mixture for around 2-3 minutes over medium heat until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
    Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
  • On a cutting board, chop the nuts and set them aside.
    In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until the mixture becomes smooth.
  • Gradually fold the room-temperature gelatin into the cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
    Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and prepared nuts.
  • To the cheese and gelatin mixture, gently add the drained pineapple, fruit cocktail, maraschino cherries, and miniature marshmallows.
    Ensure the fruits and marshmallows are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  • Transfer the mixture into a serving dish, spreading it out evenly.
    Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or until it is firmly set.
  • Before serving, decorate the top of the salad with additional maraschino cherries and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flair.
    Serve chilled as a yummy dish that will stand out among other exceptional dishes at your party.

aunt myrnas party cheese salad recipe pin

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