Copper Pennies (Carrots)
Copper Pennies is a vibrant and tangy dish featuring sliced carrots, onions, and green peppers, all marinated in a sweet and savory dressing. This colorful salad is perfect for picnics or potlucks, appealing to both vegetable lovers and those seeking a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat vinegar, sugar, and oil together.
- Cook carrots in salted water for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Combine cooked carrots with sliced onions and green pepper.
- Stir remaining ingredients into the bowl over the carrots.
- Marinate overnight.
- Drain as needed.
- This dish will keep for several weeks.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat or swapping in fresh herbs like parsley or dill. If you prefer a sweeter profile, increase the sugar slightly or add a tablespoon of honey. Make sure to slice the carrots evenly for consistent cooking. You can also substitute the green pepper with a red pepper for a sweeter taste.
Serving Suggestions
Copper Pennies can be served as a refreshing side dish at any meal, pairing wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread alongside dishes like Depression Casserole. For a light lunch, serve it over a bed of greens or with crusty bread. This dish is also fantastic for potlucks or holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to meld, making this dish even more flavorful over time. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Copper Pennies (Carrots) contains roughly 1098 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 115g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1074mg per serving (47% 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?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be aware that they may have a softer texture after cooking. If using frozen, skip the initial boiling step and add them directly to the mixture, adjusting the marination time as needed to allow flavors to penetrate.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce mixed with a little sugar to replicate the sweetness. Another option is to use vegetable broth with tomato paste for a different flavor profile.
How long can I marinate the Copper Pennies?
While marinating overnight is ideal for maximum flavor, you can marinate them for as little as 4 hours if short on time. However, for the best taste, allowing them to sit for 24 hours is recommended, as the flavors will deepen significantly.
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).