Cold Pennies(Carrots)
Cold Pennies are tangy, sweet carrot salads with a flavorful tomato dressing, perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pare and slice carrots. Boil in salted water until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Sprinkle chopped onion and green pepper over carrots in a serving dish.
- Make the topping by bringing tomato juice, oil, sugar, vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to a boil.
- Pour the hot topping over the carrots and chill. Marinate overnight for best flavor.
- Drain the carrots before serving. Serve cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder to the topping mixture. If you prefer a bit of heat, a diced jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes can be an excellent substitute for the green pepper. You can also use honey instead of sugar for a different sweetness profile. Ensure the carrots are cut uniformly for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These Cold Pennies make a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or a great addition to a picnic spread. They pair well with grilled meats or can be served alongside a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with Stove Top Dressing Mix for a hearty complement to the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crunchiness of the carrots, avoid reheating. Instead, serve the cold dish directly from the fridge. If you find the flavors have mellowed, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten them up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Pennies(Carrots) contains roughly 1033 calories, with 5g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (183% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 480mg per serving (21% 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 frozen carrots instead of fresh ones?
While fresh carrots are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen carrots in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the dish, as excess moisture can dilute the flavor.
How long should I marinate the carrots?
For optimal flavor, marinating the carrots overnight is suggested. However, if you're short on time, a minimum of 4 hours can still yield tasty results. Just remember that the longer they sit, the more the flavors will develop.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is easily adaptable for vegan diets. Simply ensure that the mustard and Worcestershire sauce you use are vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain animal products. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
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).