Lemon Vegetable Salad
A refreshing and colorful lemon vegetable salad with creamy mayonnaise, cottage cheese, and crunchy celery, perfect for light lunches or side dishes at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the lemon jello, salt, and boiling water until the jello is dissolved.
- Cool the mixture slightly until it begins to set.
- Add mayonnaise, cottage cheese, diced celery, grated onion, chopped pimento, and chopped green pepper to the jello mixture.
- Pour into a mold or dish and let set until congealed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise and cottage cheese. You can also add diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. Be sure to dissolve the jello completely before mixing in the other ingredients, and let it cool sufficiently to achieve the right texture. This Lemon Vegetable Salad is a unique addition to any potluck, similar to American recipes that incorporate jello.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served as a refreshing appetizer or side dish, pairing well with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside The Best Ever Oatmeal Cookies for dessert. Garnish with additional pimento or fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor, making it visually appealing at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may lose some texture over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reheat, it’s not recommended, as this dish is typically served cold. Instead, serve it chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Vegetable Salad contains roughly 557 calories, with 8g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1083mg per serving (47% 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 be sure to store it in the refrigerator and cover it tightly to keep it fresh. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. However, avoid adding any crunchy vegetables until just before serving to maintain their texture.
What can I substitute for pimento?
If you can't find pimento, consider using chopped roasted red peppers or diced bell peppers for color and flavor. These alternatives will still provide a nice crunch and sweetness to the dish. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Lemon Vegetable Salad is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or meat products. It combines vegetables with creamy elements, making it a satisfying option for those following vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the jello used is vegetarian-friendly, as some brands may contain gelatin.
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).