This 5 Minute Strawberry Jello Salad is a vibrant, no-fuss treat that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Bursting with juicy strawberries and a creamy, dreamy texture, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Whether you need a quick dessert or a refreshing side, this dish delivers bright flavors and a satisfyingly smooth bite in just five minutes.
Packed with vitamin C and a hint of protein, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that feels like a celebration. The light, airy jello paired with fresh strawberries creates a refreshing contrast, making it ideal for warm days or potluck surprises. It’s proof that something so simple can be utterly irresistible.
Ingredients for 5-Minute Strawberry Jello Salad
- 8 ounces Cool Whip (thawed; substitute with whipped cream for a lighter option)
- 3 ounces strawberry jello (powdered, unprepared; use sugar-free jello for a lower-calorie version)
- 12 ounces fat-free cottage cheese (substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor)
- 8 ounces strawberries (sliced; fresh or frozen both work)
- 1 banana (sliced; add just before serving to prevent browning)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cool Whip and powdered strawberry jello. Whisk until well blended and most of the jello dissolves into the Cool Whip.
- Gently fold in the cottage cheese, sliced strawberries, and banana slices until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or individual bowls and refrigerate until ready to serve. This salad is best enjoyed chilled.
- Serve and enjoy your quick, refreshing dessert or side dish!
Quick & Easy Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Jello Salad is perfect as a light dessert or a sweet side dish. Serve it in individual dessert cups for a cute presentation, or layer it in a trifle dish for a party-ready look. Pair it with a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Fun Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the flavors by using different Jello flavors like raspberry or orange. For a tropical twist, swap the strawberries and bananas with pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges. If you prefer a creamier texture, replace the cottage cheese with vanilla yogurt or whipped cream cheese.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Store your Strawberry Jello Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bananas may brown slightly, so if you’re making it ahead, consider adding them just before serving. This dish is best enjoyed cold and doesn’t freeze well due to the fruit and dairy.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
To save even more time, use pre-sliced strawberries or frozen strawberries (thawed and drained). Keep a box of powdered Jello and a tub of Cool Whip on hand for last-minute dessert cravings. This recipe is so quick, you can whip it up while dinner is cooking!
Common Questions Answered
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip? Yes, but the texture may be slightly lighter. Is this recipe kid-friendly? Absolutely! Kids love the sweet, fruity flavors. Can I make it sugar-free? Swap the Jello for a sugar-free version and use sugar-free Cool Whip for a lighter option.
5 Minute Strawberry Jello Salad
Ingredients
Fruit Salad
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
- 3 ounces strawberry jello
- 12 ounces fat free cottage cheese
- 8 ounces strawberries, sliced
- 1 banana, sliced
Instructions
- Spoon the Cool Whip and the powdered (unprepared) Jello in a large mixing bowl and whisk until they are well blended and most of the Jello dissolves into the Cool Whip.
- Next, fold in the cottage cheese, strawberries, and bananas.
- Store in refrigerator until you are ready to eat.