Mary's Cherry Dream Salad 🍒🌟

This delightful Cherry Dream Salad is a creamy and colorful addition to any gathering. A perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, this salad is both refreshing and indulgent! It combines fruits, nuts, and a luscious creamy base that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it chilled for an unforgettable treat at family reunions, potlucks, or holiday celebrations! 🎉

Ingredients

For the fruit mixture

• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 4 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 eggs
• 1 (8 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained (reserve the liquid)
• 1 (15½ oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve the liquid)
• 1 can mandarin oranges, drained (reserve the liquid)
• ½ cup fruit juice (reserved from combined fruits)

For the creamy base

• 1 (6 oz) package frozen coconut
• 1 (8 oz) container sour cream
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work perfectly!)

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine the reserved fruit juices, sugar, lemon juice, and eggs. Stir well and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.

   🍳 Remember to constantly stir to avoid scrambling the eggs. You’re aiming for a smooth custard-like consistency.

2. Remove the mixture from heat and allow it to cool completely.

3. Once cooled, fold in the sour cream until well combined.

4. Add the marshmallows, maraschino cherries, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, frozen coconut, and chopped nuts to the mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

   🥥 For added texture, consider toasting the nuts before adding them to the salad. This enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch!

5. Cover the salad and let it rest in the refrigerator for 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

   🕒 If you're short on time, try to chill it for at least a few hours, but overnight is ideal for the best taste!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this salad in a fancy glass bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. Top with a few extra cherries for a beautiful presentation!
• This salad pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like grilled meats or holiday roasts.

Variations

• Tropical Twist: Substitute the mandarin oranges with slices of fresh kiwi or mango for a tropical flair! 🥭
• Nut-Free: Omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens.
• Vegan Option: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and a dairy-free yogurt alternative to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Enjoy making this Cherry Dream Salad, and watch as it becomes a favorite at every gathering! 🍽️💖