Lacy Kern'S Beet Salad - Molded
A striking molded beet salad with vibrant color and tangy flavors, perfect for entertaining or as a refreshing side dish for a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer beet juice, water, vinegar, bay leaves, garlic, onion, and catsup until flavors meld.
- Strain out the cloves from the mixture.
- Add sugar to the hot mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Pour the hot mixture over the lemon jello to dissolve.
- Add gelatin and stir well.
- Fold in the julienne sliced beets.
- Pour the mixture into a ring mold or individual molds and chill until set.
- Garnish with lettuce, small cheese balls, artichoke hearts, or other desired accompaniments before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider roasting fresh beets instead of using canned ones. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for the white vinegar if desired. If you want a vegetarian option, ensure the gelatin used is plant-based. To enhance the dish, add herbs like dill or parsley for freshness. Ensure the mixture is hot enough to dissolve the jello completely for a smooth texture.
Serving Suggestions
This beet salad pairs beautifully with light proteins like grilled fish or chicken. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or with crusty bread for a delightful meal. For a creative twist, consider adding a dollop of yogurt or sour cream on top before serving. It also complements dishes like Pork Chops Or Breast Of Chicken very well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a microwave-safe dish, but avoid overheating to prevent the gelatin from breaking down. If serving cold, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lacy Kern'S Beet Salad - Molded contains roughly 472 calories, with 10g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (71% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 523mg per serving (23% 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 can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is fully set before covering and refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
What can I use instead of gelatin?
If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan alternative, you can use agar-agar or carrageenan as a substitute for gelatin. Follow package instructions for correct measurements, as they may vary.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and color. Just ensure they are cut small enough to blend well into the molded salad.
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).