Congealed Spinach Salad
A refreshing chilled spinach salad with tangy lemon gelatin, creamy cottage cheese, and crunchy celery, perfect for light gatherings or as a cool side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lemon gelatin in hot water; chill until slightly congealed.
- Add remaining ingredients: spinach, mayonnaise, cottage cheese, balsamic vinegar, chopped celery, and chopped onion; mix well.
- Pour mixture into a greased 8 x 8-inch pan or mold.
- Chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained before mixing. You can substitute sour cream for mayonnaise for a tangy flavor or use Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If you want extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. This salad can also be jazzed up with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, which complement the spinach beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This congealed spinach salad makes a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or a light lunch option. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Pecan Upside-Down Coffee Cake for dessert. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. Garnish with additional chopped herbs for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can become watery as it sits, so stir it gently before serving. Reheat is not recommended, as this dish is best served cold. If the gelatin has set too firmly, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Congealed Spinach Salad contains roughly 204 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 556mg per serving (24% 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 spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Simply blanch it briefly in boiling water until wilted, then chop and drain before adding it to the mixture. This will give you a fresher flavor and a vibrant color, though it may require a bit more prep time.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This congealed spinach salad is a vegetarian recipe, making it perfect for meatless meals. Just ensure that the gelatin you use is plant-based, as some brands contain animal products. Many health food stores offer vegetarian or vegan gelatin alternatives.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just follow the recipe as usual, pour it into the mold, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, simply slice and enjoy. Remember to cover it well to prevent any odor absorption from the fridge.
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).