Pineapple Party Salad
This creamy vintage party salad blends pineapple, lemon and lime gelatin, cottage cheese, mayonnaise, pecans, and sweetened condensed milk into a refreshing make-ahead dish for holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Prep
20 min
Cook
4 hr chill
Temp
Cold
Yield
14 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple
- 1 (3-ounce) package lemon gelatin
- 1 (3-ounce) package lime gelatin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
1Drain the syrup from the crushed pineapple into a measuring cup. Add enough water to the syrup to make 2 cups of liquid total.
2Pour the liquid into a saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon gelatin, lime gelatin, and salt until completely dissolved.
3Let the gelatin mixture cool for 10–15 minutes, or until no longer hot but still liquid.
4In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until evenly blended.
5Pour the cooled gelatin mixture into the creamy mixture and stir until fully incorporated. Fold in the crushed pineapple and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
6Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl, mold, or 2-quart dish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. Serve chilled.
Tips & Variations
- Toast the pecans before adding them for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Add a handful of miniature marshmallows for a sweeter, fluffier texture.
- Serve the salad in a ring mold for a classic vintage presentation.
- Garnish with additional pecans before serving for extra crunch and visual appeal.
- Garnish with pineapple tidbits, fresh berries, or mint sprigs for a festive presentation.
