Coolime Salad
A tangy, creamy gelatin salad with cottage cheese and vegetables, perfect as a light side dish or for entertaining guests who enjoy refreshing, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lime Jell-O and salt in boiling water.
- Cool the mixture to room temperature.
- Beat the cottage cheese until smooth.
- Stir buttermilk, white vinegar, horseradish, pepper, paprika, and cheese into the Jell-O; chill until very thick.
- Fold in the finely chopped onion, celery, and radish slices.
- Pour into a 1-quart mold and chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese with the buttermilk before combining with the Jell-O mixture. If you prefer a little more heat, consider adding extra horseradish. You can substitute the lime Jell-O with other flavors like lemon or orange for a different twist. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings alongside dishes like Lady Locks.
Serving Suggestions
This Coolime Salad makes a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or can stand alone as a light lunch. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or pair it with hearty dishes like Unfried French Fries for a balanced meal. Garnish with additional radish slices for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, you can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge. If it seems too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coolime Salad contains roughly 61 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1037mg per serving (45% 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 be sure to let it set in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to achieve the best texture. This makes it an excellent option for potlucks or family gatherings.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using. This will mimic the acidity and thickness of buttermilk.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Coolime Salad is a vegetarian recipe as it contains no meat or animal-derived gelatin. It's a great option for vegetarians looking for a unique and flavorful dish that can complement a variety of meals.
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).