Key Lime Pie Salad Recipe

Previous Next

Key Lime Marshmallow Dessert

This refreshing dessert is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. Its simple to make, and its delightful texture will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this easy recipe for a light and indulgent treat!

Ingredients

• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (3 ounce) package lime-flavored gelatin (such as Jell-O)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons grated Key lime zest, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 cup Key lime juice
• 1 (8 ounce) frozen whipped topping, thawed (such as Cool Whip)
• 8 cups miniature marshmallows
• 3 graham cracker sheets, broken into 1/2-inch pieces, divided

Directions

1. Step 1: Start by gathering all the ingredients. This will make the process much smoother!
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lime gelatin, Key lime zest, and Key lime juice until everything is well combined.
3. Step 3: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, miniature marshmallows, and 1/2 cup of the graham cracker pieces. Mix until just combined avoid overmixing to keep the fluffiness intact.
4. Step 4: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until it has set properly. The dessert should firm up nicely and hold its shape.
5. Step 5: Once set, transfer the dessert to a serving dish. For the finishing touch, garnish with extra Key lime zest and the remaining 1/4 cup of graham cracker pieces for a little crunch and extra flavor.
6. Step 6: Serve and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and creaminess in every bite!

This recipe makes about 10 servings and can be adjusted for larger or smaller groups if needed. Its the ideal dish for any occasion refreshing and light, yet indulgent!

Key Lime Pie Salad is a refreshing and unique dessert that captures the essence of the famous Key Lime Pie but in a fun, easy-to-make salad form. This light, airy dessert combines the zesty flavor of Key limes with sweet marshmallows, graham cracker crumbs, and whipped topping, creating a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Its a great alternative to the traditional pie, especially for those who love no-bake desserts.

History of Key Lime Pie Salad

Key Lime Pie has its origins in the Florida Keys, where Key limes were abundant. The classic dessert is thought to have been created in the early 20th century, with the first published recipe appearing in 1931. The Key Lime Pie Salad, however, is a more recent invention, inspired by the flavors of the beloved pie but reimagined in a salad format. It is believed to have originated in the Southern United States, where no-bake desserts and fluff salads are popular at family gatherings and potlucks.

Regional Variations and Adaptations

While the Key Lime Pie Salad is often associated with the Southern U.S., it has spread across the country and adapted to various regional tastes. Some versions use different flavored gelatin or substitute marshmallows with whipped cream for a smoother texture. In certain areas, the salad is made with a combination of cream cheese and condensed milk, which thickens the mixture even more. In the Southwest, it might even be spiced up with a pinch of chili powder for an interesting twist!

How It Differs From Similar Desserts

At first glance, the Key Lime Pie Salad may seem similar to other dessert salads, but it has several distinctive features. Unlike traditional "fluff" salads that use fruit gelatin, this recipe focuses on the tangy flavor of Key lime, giving it a sharp, citrusy kick. The addition of marshmallows adds a chewy texture, setting it apart from smoother gelatin-based salads like the classic Ambrosia. Furthermore, the crunchy graham cracker bits provide the characteristic crunch of a traditional Key Lime Pie crust, making it even more reminiscent of the original dessert.

Where Its Typically Served

Key Lime Pie Salad is often served at casual gatherings, particularly during the warmer months. Its a popular choice for summer barbecues, picnics, and family reunions. Its refreshing taste and ease of preparation make it ideal for potlucks, holiday dinners, or beachside get-togethers. In Florida, where Key Lime Pie is a regional staple, the salad might even be featured at local restaurants or dessert buffets as a fun variation on the classic pie.

Interesting Facts About Key Lime Pie Salad

• The Key Lime Pie Salad is often referred to as a "dessert salad" due to its combination of sweet and tangy flavors, as well as its marshmallow base.
• While traditional Key Lime Pie uses egg yolks in the filling, Key Lime Pie Salad skips the eggs for a lighter, more family-friendly version.
• Although Key limes are smaller and more tart than regular limes, you can substitute bottled Key lime juice if fresh limes arent available.
• The unique combination of marshmallows and whipped topping in this salad creates a surprisingly fluffy, yet rich texture that contrasts nicely with the tart lime flavor.

Overall, Key Lime Pie Salad offers a playful, no-bake twist on the traditional Key Lime Pie. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a personal treat, this dessert is sure to impress with its delightful balance of tangy lime, sweet marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers.

FAQ about Key Lime Pie Salad Recipe

Comments