Dolly Corban'S Asparagus Salad
A refreshing asparagus salad with sweet gelatin, crunchy celery, and pecans, ideal for light lunches or side dishes at gatherings, offering a balance of tangy and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the plain gelatin in 1/2 cup cold water and set aside.
- Heat 1 cup water with sugar, vinegar, and salt until boiling.
- Add the dissolved gelatin to the hot liquid and stir until completely dissolved.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Add the remaining ingredients, including the asparagus juice from the can and lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture into a bowl and chill until set.
- Cut the set gelatin mixture into squares.
- Garnish with mayonnaise and lettuce if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
Make sure to soak the gelatin in cold water as instructed for proper texture. If you prefer a tangier flavor, consider using apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar. You can also substitute chopped walnuts for pecans if desired. For a vegan version, use agar-agar instead of gelatin and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based. This salad pairs beautifully with Lite Punch Bowl Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the asparagus salad as a refreshing side dish at picnics or potlucks. It pairs well with grilled meats or a light sandwich. For an elegant touch, garnish with a dollop of mayonnaise and fresh lettuce leaves. This dish can also complement Cathy'S Homemade Bread, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover asparagus salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the salad as it may become watery when thawed. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier cutting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dolly Corban'S Asparagus Salad contains roughly 733 calories, with 11g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1377mg per serving (60% 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 asparagus instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh asparagus! Just blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then plunge it into ice water to stop the cooking. Drain well before adding it to the salad. Fresh asparagus will add a crisp texture and vibrant flavor to the dish.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
The salad typically takes around 4-6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the gelatin to fully firm up, ensuring a perfect texture when cut into squares.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day or two in advance, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings. Just be sure to store it in the fridge until you're ready to serve, and keep it covered to maintain freshness.
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).