Luncheon Salad
A creamy, savory luncheon salad featuring tomato soup, cream cheese, and crunchy nuts, perfect for light gatherings or as a flavorful spread accompanied by crackers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the tomato soup and add the softened gelatine dissolved in cold water.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- Mash the cream cheese with a fork and add it to the cooled mixture.
- Combine the remaining ingredients: mayonnaise, chopped celery, chopped green pepper, minced onion, and broken nut meats, then add to the mixture.
- Chill until the salad is firm.
- Serve with Ritz crackers or your preferred accompaniments.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or parsley to the salad mixture. If you're out of cream cheese, cottage cheese can be a lighter substitute, though it will alter the texture. Make sure to let the gelatin dissolve completely for a smooth finish. For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the nut meats or use sunflower seeds instead.
Serving Suggestions
This Luncheon Salad is delightful served chilled with Ritz crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with a light soup or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For an added crunch, consider topping it with crispy fried onions or serving alongside a refreshing fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin may cause the salad to firm up more, so allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as it can change the texture of the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Luncheon Salad contains roughly 763 calories, with 7g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 897mg per serving (39% 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 is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare it a day before your event, allowing the flavors to meld and the gelatin to set properly. Just ensure it's kept covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for mayonnaise. It will add a tangy flavor and creaminess while reducing calories. Alternatively, vegan mayo works well for a dairy-free version.
Is this salad suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely! This Luncheon Salad is a hit at potlucks due to its unique flavor and appealing presentation. Just make sure to bring serving utensils and consider chilling it in a cooler if the event is outdoors to keep it fresh.
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).