Grandma E'S Molded Shrimp Salad
Grandma E's Molded Shrimp Salad is a delightful appetizer featuring tender shrimp suspended in a tangy tomato gelée. Flavored with onion, celery, and a hint of cayenne, this elegant dish is perfect for special occasions or as a sophisticated starter for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix tomato juice, bay leaf, salt, cayenne pepper, chopped onion, and chopped celery in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Soften the gelatine in cold water and then dissolve it in the hot tomato juice mixture.
- Add vinegar or lemon juice, remove the bay leaf, and let the mixture cool to set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, you can blend the tomato juice mixture before adding the gelatine. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less cayenne pepper or opt for a milder hot sauce. You can substitute the shrimp with crab meat for a different twist, similar to the flavor profile in Crab Nibbles.
Serving Suggestions
This molded shrimp salad is delicious served with a light green salad or on a bed of lettuce. It pairs beautifully with Corn And Crab Bisque for a complete seafood-themed meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve again, it's best enjoyed chilled, so simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit for a few minutes to soften before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma E'S Molded Shrimp Salad contains roughly 136 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1253mg per serving (54% 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 shrimp salad in advance?
Yes, this salad can be prepared a day ahead. Just ensure it is tightly covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the dish.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can substitute it with vegetable juice or even a mixture of pureed tomatoes and broth for a similar flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use bay leaves?
While bay leaves add depth to the flavor, you can omit them if you don't have any on hand. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to maintain a balanced taste.
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).