Copper Penny
Copper Penny is a vibrant and tangy carrot salad with a sweet and sour marinade. Its bright flavors and crunchy texture make it a perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings. Refreshing and versatile, it's sure to brighten any meal with its colorful presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the carrots and drain them.
- Make a marinade with the liquid from the canned tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Beat the marinade well until combined.
- Pour the marinade over the cooked carrots and chopped green pepper and onion.
- Refrigerate the mixture and let it chill.
- Serve cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try using fresh herbs like parsley or dill in the marinade. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can substitute the salad oil with olive oil for a richer taste. If you're in a hurry, pre-cut vegetables can save time, and using cherry tomatoes can add a nice sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Copper Penny is a delightful side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks, pairing well with grilled meats and sandwiches. It also complements dishes like Tangy Sausage beautifully. Consider serving it alongside a Fresh Fruit Tray or with crusty bread to round out a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, making it even tastier on the second day. To serve, simply take it out of the fridge and enjoy it cold; there's no need to reheat this dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Copper Penny contains roughly 1109 calories, with 7g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (174% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and potassium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1161mg per serving (50% 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 diced carrots for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish. The flavors will still come together nicely, and you’ll save time in preparation.
How long should I marinate the vegetables?
For optimal flavor, marinate the vegetables for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the carrots, green pepper, and onion to fully absorb the tangy marinade, enhancing the taste when served cold.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, Copper Penny is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring the Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies. This refreshing dish is perfect for those following vegan recipes and can be enjoyed by everyone!
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).