Flavored Gelatin or Jello Salad
Flavored gelatin salad, commonly known as Jello salad, is a retro American dessert or side dish made by combining flavored gelatin with various mix-ins like fruit, vegetables, or even marshmallows. It's a staple of mid-20th century potlucks and holiday meals, particularly in the United States. The dish is known for its vibrant colors and wobbly, molded presentation.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is typically high in carbohydrates from the sugar in the gelatin and any added fruits or sweeteners, while being very low in protein and fat. A standard serving provides quick energy but minimal essential nutrients, with a rough calorie count ranging from 100 to 200 calories depending on the specific recipe and portion size.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbs | 34 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 32 g |
| Sodium | 65 mg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Calcium | 15 mg |
| Iron | 0.2 mg |
| Potassium | 30 mg |
| Phosphorus | 20 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.02 mg |
| Folate | 5 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Jello salad represents a unique era of American culinary history, symbolizing post-war optimism and a fascination with convenience foods and modern presentation. Nutritionally, its interesting aspect is how it can be a vehicle for both sugary treats and, in some savory versions, hidden vegetables, making it a surprisingly versatile component of the meal.
