Jellied Green Bean Salad
A vibrant, refreshing green bean salad set in tangy lemon jello, perfect for light gatherings or holiday sides, combining crisp vegetables with a zesty gelatin base.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lemon jello and salt in boiling water.
- Add vinegar and ice cubes; stir until jello begins to thicken, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove unmelted ice.
- Fold in cooked green beans, sliced celery, and sliced stuffed olives.
- Pour mixture into a 4-cup mold or individual molds.
- Chill until firm, about 3 hours.
- Unmold and garnish with crisp salad greens and mayonnaise.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Jellied Green Bean Salad, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy kick. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the stuffed olives with diced pickles. Make sure the green beans are tender but still crisp for the best texture. If you prefer a sweeter salad, you can lightly drizzle honey over the mixture before chilling.
Serving Suggestions
This Jellied Green Bean Salad is a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, and can be served alongside other salads like Great Layered Salad. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of mayonnaise for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be served cold straight from the fridge. If it seems too firm after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jellied Green Bean Salad contains roughly 239 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1515mg per serving (66% 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 different flavors of jello for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different jello flavors, such as lime or raspberry, to create a unique taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the jello will influence the overall taste of the salad, so choose a flavor that complements the green beans and other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make the Jellied Green Bean Salad vegan, simply choose a plant-based gelatin replacement, such as agar-agar, instead of traditional jello. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the olives and vinegar, are also vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a refreshing salad that fits into vegan recipes.
How do I know when the jello mixture is ready to fold in the vegetables?
The jello mixture is ready when it starts to thicken, which typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes after adding the ice cubes. It should be viscous enough to hold the green beans and other ingredients without them sinking to the bottom. Stir occasionally to monitor the consistency.
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).