Broccoli Ring
A colorful and savory broccoli ring that combines chopped broccoli, hard-cooked eggs, and a creamy mayonnaise and sour cream mixture. Perfect for parties or family gatherings, it offers a refreshing lemon flavor and a smooth, gelatinous texture that appeals to both adults and children alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the chopped broccoli.
- Soften gelatin in water. Add condensed chicken broth to gelatin; heat and stir until gelatin is dissolved.
- Beat mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and minced onion with rotary beater until smooth.
- Add the dissolved gelatin mixture and beat again.
- Fold in chopped eggs and cooked broccoli into the partially set gelatin mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the mixture. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. For those avoiding gelatin, you can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative. Ensure the diced eggs and broccoli are evenly folded in to maintain a consistent texture throughout the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Broccoli Ring as a refreshing appetizer or side dish at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Caesar Salad or as part of a buffet alongside a Delicious Casserole. Garnish with additional chopped herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for an appealing presentation. Consider serving it with crackers or toasted bread for a delightful texture contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served cold, so you can enjoy it straight from the fridge. If you wish to reheat, do so gently in the microwave, but note that the texture may change. This dish is typically enjoyed cold, making reheating unnecessary for most.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Ring contains roughly 203 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% 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 use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh broccoli! Just steam or blanch it until tender, then chop it finely. Fresh broccoli will add a brighter flavor and crunch to the dish, but be sure to cool it down before mixing it into the gelatin to ensure it sets properly.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make the Broccoli Ring vegetarian, substitute the condensed chicken broth with vegetable broth. Additionally, use a plant-based gelatin alternative, like agar-agar, to ensure it sets properly without using animal products. This maintains the dish's texture and flavor while catering to vegetarian diets.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and the gelatin to set overnight in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well to maintain freshness, and serve it cold for the best taste.
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).