Herb Blox
Herb Blox are savory gelatin squares packed with fresh herbs and vegetables, offering a refreshing, herbaceous flavor perfect for parties, salads, or finger food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 4 envelopes unflavored gelatin
- 3 (3 oz.) packages lemon jello ⓘ
- 4 cups boiling water
- 4 cups chopped celery ⓘ
- 1 green pepper, finely chopped ⓘ
- 2 cups fresh parsley, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon basil ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon rosemary ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon vinegar ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine gelatin envelopes and boiling water; stir until dissolved.
- Add herbs, chopped vegetables, and seasonings; mix well.
- Pour mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan and chill until firm.
- Cut into squares to serve as finger food or large squares for salads.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried ones, or try substituting with dill or cilantro to give the dish a twist. If you want to make it a bit heartier, adding finely chopped carrots or cucumbers could enhance both texture and taste. Make sure the boiling water is truly boiling to ensure the gelatin dissolves completely.
Serving Suggestions
These Herb Blox squares make a refreshing appetizer or side dish. They pair beautifully with Asparagus Salad(No Sugar) or can be served alongside a light soup. For a more substantial meal, consider serving with a protein like grilled chicken or fish, and a glass of Spiced Mulled Cider for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm on low heat, but it's best served cold. If you want to serve it warm, consider slicing and placing it in a microwave-safe dish to heat evenly without melting the gelatin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herb Blox contains roughly 456 calories, with 14g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (172% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (122% of the Daily Value), and calcium (106% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 34g 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 make Herb Blox ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Herb Blox a day or two in advance. Just make sure it's fully set in the refrigerator before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it a convenient option for gatherings.
What can I substitute for gelatin if I want a vegetarian option?
If you're looking for a vegetarian substitute for gelatin, consider using agar-agar, which is derived from seaweed. Follow the package instructions for the correct amount to use, as it may differ from gelatin.
How can I add more flavor to the Herb Blox?
To enhance the flavor, try adding some chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the mixture. You can also increase the amount of herbs or add a splash of lemon juice for a tangy kick, giving it a vibrant 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).