Broccoli Salad Mold
A creamy, savory broccoli salad mold combining tender broccoli, chopped eggs, and a gelatin-based dressing, perfect for gatherings and served chilled with a tangy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli according to package directions and drain well.
- Soften gelatin in 1/4 cup cold beef consomme.
- Heat remaining beef consomme to a boil.
- Add gelatin mixture and seasonings (Worcestershire, salt, Tabasco).
- Cool but don't let it gel.
- Blend in mayonnaise.
- Add chopped eggs and broccoli.
- Pour into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Refrigerate until set and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure that the broccoli is finely chopped and well-drained to prevent excess moisture. If you want a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute chicken broth for beef consomme if preferred. Adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving can enhance the flavor, making it a delightful addition to any gathering, much like other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Broccoli Salad Mold chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be a centerpiece on a buffet table alongside dishes like Elegant Meat Balls. Garnish with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation, and consider serving it with a light vinaigrette salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, it's best to slice individual portions and warm them gently in the microwave to avoid overheating. This dish is typically served cold, so it's perfect for make-ahead meals and picnics, although it can be enjoyed at room temperature as well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Salad Mold contains roughly 246 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% 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 use fresh broccoli. Just blanch it briefly in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then chop and cool it before adding to the mixture. This will retain the bright color and crispness, enhancing the overall texture of the salad mold.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, replace the beef consomme with vegetable broth and use agar-agar instead of gelatin for a plant-based gelling agent. This maintains the integrity of the recipe while accommodating vegetarian diets.
What can I do if the salad doesn't set properly?
If the salad doesn't set properly, it may be due to insufficient gelatin or not allowing the mixture to cool completely before chilling. You can try adding more gelatin dissolved in a small amount of warm water, then mix it back in before chilling again.
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).