Ashville Salad
Ashville Salad is a creamy, colorful appetizer featuring a blend of cream cheese, tomato soup, and fresh vegetables. Its smooth texture and vibrant appearance make it perfect for parties or family gatherings, offering a delightful mix of savory and tangy flavors that appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the tomato soup and cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the plain gelatin and stir until fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in mayonnaise and chopped vegetables.
- Optional: add pimento for color before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat cream cheese and a high-quality mayonnaise. If you want a lighter version, opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the green pepper with diced celery or cucumber for a different crunch. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved for a smooth salad consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This Ashville Salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Yellow Buns or can be served alongside a simple green salad. For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy this dish again, serve cold directly from the fridge. If the texture seems off after refrigeration, you can mix in a little extra mayonnaise to refresh it before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ashville Salad contains roughly 738 calories, with 8g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (180% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 601mg per serving (26% 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 made a day in advance. Just ensure to keep it refrigerated until ready to serve. The flavors will meld nicely overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I substitute for gelatin?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using agar-agar as a substitute for gelatin. Follow the package instructions for the correct ratio, as it can differ from traditional gelatin.
How do I adjust the spice level?
To add a little heat, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salad. Alternatively, you can include diced radishes for a peppery bite without overpowering the dish.
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).