Louise'S Asparagus Salad
A creamy, crunchy asparagus salad with a citrus twist, perfect for light gatherings or as a refreshing side dish, combining flavors of green pepper, celery, and pecans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the asparagus soup to boiling in a saucepan.
- Add the lime jello to the hot soup and stir until completely dissolved.
- Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Pour in the mayonnaise and cold water, then beat until well blended.
- Stir in the chopped celery, chopped green pepper, chopped pecans, and grated onion.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or serving dish.
- Chill until the salad is firm and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the lime jello with lemon or orange for a different flavor profile. Adding diced cucumbers or radishes can enhance the crunch, while using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can make it lighter. This salad can also be enjoyed as part of a picnic spread alongside Cinnamon-Crusted Baked Apples.
Serving Suggestions
This asparagus salad is best served chilled, making it a refreshing appetizer or side dish at gatherings. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Oatmeal Pancakes (Fat Free) for a hearty brunch. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and visual appeal, and it can also be served as part of a vegetarian buffet.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the salad becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change once thawed. When ready to enjoy, simply scoop out portions as needed, and it can be served cold without reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Louise'S Asparagus Salad contains roughly 316 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 593mg per serving (26% 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
Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this salad is suitable for vegetarian diets as it contains no meat or fish. Be sure to check the ingredients of the jello you use, as some brands may contain gelatin derived from animal sources. Opt for a vegetarian-friendly jello alternative if necessary.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
You can enhance the visual appeal of this salad by adding vibrant ingredients such as diced red bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even cherry tomatoes. These additions not only add color but also boost the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
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).