As the warmer months roll in, finding the perfect balance between indulgence and light, refreshing meals can be a challenge. Enter the Pineapple and Cream Cheese Salad—a vibrant, creamy concoction that not only pleases the palate but also adds a touch of tropical flair to your dining table. With sweet corn, crisp white cabbage, luscious pineapple, and rich cream cheese dressed in a smooth blend of mayonnaise and cream, this salad is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Plus, it’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for quick lunches or a hassle-free addition to any dinner party.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Calories per Serving
- Calories: 295 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cup (150g) sweet corn
- 100g (2 cups) white cabbage, finely shredded
- 250g (9oz) double cream cheese
- 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons low-fat mayonnaise
- 200g (3/4 cup) cream
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Pineapple: Peel the pineapple, remove the core, and cut the fruit into small, bite-sized pieces.
- White Cabbage: Finely shred the white cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer.
- Cilantro: Rinse, dry, and chop the cilantro leaves, discarding the stems.
- Cucumber: Wash and thinly slice the cucumber.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet corn, shredded cabbage, pineapple pieces, chopped cilantro, and sliced cucumber.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-fat mayonnaise and cream until smooth.
- Mix the Salad and Dressing:
- Pour the mayonnaise and cream mixture over the salad ingredients.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional cilantro leaves and a few fresh pineapple slices.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a refreshing side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
- Perfect for brunch or as a light main course.
- For an eye-catching presentation, serve in hollowed-out pineapple halves.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the creaminess by adding more or less mayonnaise and cream to suit your taste.
- Assemble close to serving time to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Nutritional Benefits
- Pineapple: High in vitamin C, supports immune function and skin health.
- Cabbage and Cucumber: Provide dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.
- Cream Cheese and Cream: Offer calcium for bone health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Ensure mayonnaise used is gluten-free.
- Lighter Option: Substitute full-fat cream cheese and cream with low-fat versions, or use a yogurt-based dressing.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 295 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 18g
- Calcium: 150mg
- Vitamin C: 35mg
Storage
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- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delightful combination of creamy texture and tropical flavors.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute meals or gatherings.
- Versatile enough to be a side dish or a light main course.
- Visually appealing, making it a showstopper at any meal.
Conclusion
This Pineapple and Cream Cheese Salad is not only delicious and easy to make but also versatile and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you’re hosting a party, needing a quick lunch, or simply looking for something different to add to your meal rotation, this salad is sure to impress. Its combination of health benefits and flavorful ingredients makes it a smart and satisfying choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
- Yes, but fresh pineapple is recommended for a crisper texture and more vibrant flavor.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- It’s best to prepare it close to serving time to maintain the freshness, but you can prep the ingredients and mix them just before serving.
- Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
- You can use a dairy-free cream cheese or a thick Greek yogurt for a different texture.
- Can I add other fruits to this salad?
- Yes, fruits like mango or apple can be added for extra flavor and texture.
- What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette.
- How do I keep the cucumber from making the salad watery?
- Consider removing the seeds from the cucumber or patting the slices dry before adding them to the salad.
- Can I add protein to this salad?
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would be great additions for extra protein.
- How long will this salad last in the fridge?
- It will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best eaten fresh.
- Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?
- While it’s relatively low in carbs, the pineapple adds natural sugars. For a lower-carb version, reduce or omit the pineapple.
- Can I make this salad dairy-free?
- Yes, substitute the cream cheese and cream with dairy-free alternatives.