French Bean Basket
A colorful and refreshing green bean dish set in a lemon jello ring, perfect for salads or festive gatherings, combining tangy citrus flavors with tender beans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lemon jello and chicken bouillon cubes in boiling water.
- Add frozen French style green beans and stir until the beans separate and the jello begins to thicken.
- Stir in cold water, lemon juice, and chopped pimientos.
- Pour the mixture into a 4 or 5-cup ring mold or individual molds.
- Chill until firm, about 2 hours.
- Unmold and garnish with crisp greens if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder when dissolving the jello and bouillon cubes. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute vegetable bouillon for the chicken bouillon cubes. For added texture, try incorporating chopped celery or bell peppers along with the pimientos.
Serving Suggestions
Unmold the jello mixture onto a serving platter and garnish with crisp greens for a refreshing touch. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or can be served as a colorful side at picnics and potlucks. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Chicken And Artichokes(Yields 4 Servings) or a light salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently microwave in short intervals until warmed through, or let it come to room temperature before serving. This dish is best enjoyed cold, so consider serving it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Bean Basket contains roughly 81 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used in this recipe. Just blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes until tender but still crisp before adding them to the jello mixture. This will help retain their vibrant color and texture.
What other vegetables can I add to the jello?
You can customize the recipe by adding diced cucumbers, carrots, or even corn for variation. Just ensure that any added vegetables are finely chopped so they mix well with the jello and set properly.
Is there a way to make this dish more flavorful?
Absolutely! Consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also elevate the flavor profile, making it a standout dish at your gathering.
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).