As Christmas approaches and I visit with families who have made coming to our farm part of their Christmas tradition, I reflect on our own family's traditions.  Food plays a large part in our traditions with certain dishes linked with various holidays evoking fond memories of family gatherings.

As I count down to Christmas I will be sharing some of my favorite recipes with you that have become linked with my Christmas traditions.  I'm starting with the Christmas Jello Salad because it can be served almost anytime.  It's easy, colourful, kid friendly and versatile as part of the main course or as a desert.  Strawberries and cranberries are a delicious combination - we've even made jam combining the two - check out our Berry Christmas jam.

Christmas Jello Salad

I’m not sure why jello salads went out of vogue; most are quick and easy to make. This one is a favorite of mine at Christmas, hence its name.  You can serve it as part of the main course or as desert.  This salad is delicious anytime and it adds a nice splash of colour to the dinner table.  The sour cream is ever so creamy and takes the edge off the sweetness of the other ingredients.

• 2 small pkgs raspberry or strawberry jello
• 1 ¾ cups hot water
• 1 ½ cups whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 19 oz. can crushed pineapple
• 1 cup sour cream

Mix hot water and jello powder; add cranberry sauce stirring until dissolved.

Add crushed pineapple with juice, stir.

Divide mixture into 2 bowls and chill until partially set.

Spread a layer of sour cream over one half then pour the rest of jello mixture over top.   Chill until set.

I use a fancy glass bowl for this salad instead of a jello mold.  Either is fine.