Asheville Salad
A vibrant, creamy salad with fresh vegetables and a savory gelatin base, perfect for entertaining or light summer meals, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the tomato soup and water until hot.
- Add the cream cheese to the hot mixture and stir until smooth.
- Mix in the Knox gelatine and let the mixture cool.
- Add chopped green pepper, chopped onion, diced celery, and mayonnaise to the cooled mixture.
- Pour the mixture into molds and refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the hot soup mixture. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier twist or use a vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version. If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds. This Asheville Salad can be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Asheville Salad as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp, or you can serve it alongside a light soup for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. If the mixture appears too thick after refrigeration, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asheville Salad contains roughly 966 calories, with 14g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1129mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the point of refrigeration. Allow it to set overnight for the best flavor and texture. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I use instead of Knox gelatine?
If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, consider using agar-agar as a substitute for Knox gelatine. Follow the package instructions for proper ratios, and it will set similarly in this recipe.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding vegetables like diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even some cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content to ensure the salad sets properly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).