Coral Salad
A refreshing gelatin salad with tomato flavor, cream cheese, celery, and green pepper, perfect for summer gatherings or as a unique starter dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the gelatine in 1/2 cup water.
- Heat the tomato soup without adding water.
- Add the softened gelatine to the heated tomato soup and stir until dissolved.
- Work in the cream cheese packages and beat well with an egg beater until smooth.
- Cool the mixture, then add mayonnaise, chopped celery, and chopped green pepper. Mix well and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smoother texture, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add diced cucumbers for extra crunch or even substitute the tomato soup with a vegetable broth for a different flavor profile. For a touch of sweetness, a bit of sugar or honey can enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Coral Salad chilled as a refreshing appetizer or side dish at summer gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood, making it a perfect complement to a barbecue. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light, green salad or incorporating it into a buffet spread featuring American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become firmer as it chills, so if you prefer a softer texture, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change significantly upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coral Salad contains roughly 1049 calories, with 16g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 104g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1498mg per serving (65% 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 a different type of soup in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different soups like vegetable or even a cream-based soup for varied flavors. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and texture may change, so adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for the gelatine?
Absolutely! You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian substitute for gelatine. Follow the package instructions for the correct measurements, and it will set similarly, giving you the desired consistency for your salad.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare it, chill it, and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious dish when served.
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).