If you grew up going to potlucks, church suppers, or holiday gatherings, there’s a good chance you’ve seen a dish just like this Sour Cream Strawberry Salad on the table. It’s one of those retro recipes that looks a little surprising but always disappears fast. Sweet and creamy, this is the kind of salad that blurs the line between side dish and dessert—in the best possible way.

The base starts with strawberry Jell-O mixed with boiling water, then loaded up with frozen strawberries, crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans. Letting that first layer chill just enough helps it set without going fully firm, which makes layering easy. The fruit gives it bright flavor and texture, while the pecans add a crunch that keeps things interesting.

Once the first layer is ready, a thick layer of sour cream gets spread right on top. The sour cream adds a cool, tangy contrast to all that sweetness, balancing the dish perfectly. The second Jell-O layer goes over the top with the remaining fruit and nuts, creating that layered look.

After a couple of hours in the fridge, it’s ready to slice and serve. This Sour Cream Strawberry Salad is best served chilled and is perfect for make-ahead occasions since it holds up well in the refrigerator. Bring it to a picnic, holiday meal, or family dinner and don’t be surprised when people ask for the recipe—it’s a classic for a reason.