Elsie'S Salad
A bright, tangy salad full of sweet corn, crisp beans, and fresh veggies—perfect as a refreshing side or light lunch for warm days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the oil, water, salt, pepper, sugar, and vinegar until the mixture is well mixed.
- Combine the peas, green beans, corn, diced green pepper, grated carrot, and chopped onion in a large bowl.
- Pour the vinegar and oil mixture over the vegetables and stir to coat.
- Cover and chill the salad for 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a touch of freshness, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the salad before serving. You can substitute the sugar with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile. If you're looking for a vegan option, ensure the sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this colorful salad chilled as a side dish at barbecues or potlucks, where it pairs beautifully with Grandma Verna'S Baked Pork Chops. It also makes a great light lunch on its own. Consider adding some crumbled feta cheese for a salty contrast or serve alongside grilled meats and crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad flavors will continue to meld and improve after chilling. To refresh the salad before serving, give it a good stir and add a splash of vinegar if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elsie'S Salad contains roughly 600 calories, with 8g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (153% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2014mg per serving (88% 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 is perfect for making ahead! In fact, chilling it for 24 hours enhances the flavors. Just ensure it is tightly covered in the fridge to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for the green beans?
You can replace the green beans with blanched asparagus or even diced zucchini for a similar texture. If you're looking for something with a crunch, try adding chopped celery.
Is it possible to make this salad low-sugar?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar by half or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting to taste. This makes it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
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).