Melvena'S Delicious Jellied Old Fashioned Cole Slaw

Prep: 15 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A tangy and creamy jellied cole slaw featuring lemon gelatin, mayonnaise, sour cream, and shredded cabbage, perfect for a refreshing side dish at gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 3 oz. lemon gelatin
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 c. hot water
  • 1/4 c. cold water
  • 1/2 c. mayonnaise
  • 1/2 c. sour cream
  • 1 tsp. grated onion
  • 1 Tbsp. prepared mustard
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 2 c. finely shredded cabbage

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the lemon gelatin and salt in hot water.
  2. Add cold water and chill until just syrupy.
  3. Fold in mayonnaise, sour cream, grated onion, mustard, vinegar, and sugar.
  4. Chill until slightly thickened.
  5. Fold in shredded cabbage.
  6. Pour into a mold and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a twist on flavor, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots to the slaw. If you prefer a tangier taste, substitute apple cider vinegar for regular vinegar. Always ensure the gelatin mixture is chilled enough before folding in the creamy ingredients to maintain texture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-packaged coleslaw mix instead of shredding cabbage yourself.

Serving Suggestions

This jellied coleslaw makes an excellent side dish for summer barbecues, pairing beautifully with dishes like Dijon Reuben En Croute. Serve it chilled straight from the mold, or scoop it into individual bowls. It's also great alongside grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread. Consider serving it with crusty bread or crackers for added texture.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin can separate slightly, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture may change upon thawing. To refresh, you can add a bit more sour cream or mayonnaise if it seems dry after refrigeration.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Melvena'S Delicious Jellied Old Fashioned Cole Slaw contains roughly 138 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1312mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).

138 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 6.8g 9% DV
Carbs 16.6g 6% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 7.2g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1312.2mg 57% DV
Potassium 151.4mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 0mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 34.8mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 7.9mg 9% DV
Calcium 37.2mg 3% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg

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 a different flavor of gelatin?

Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of gelatin, such as lime or orange, to create a different taste profile. Just be mindful that the flavor will change, and the overall color of the slaw will also vary accordingly. Lime gelatin can add a refreshing zing that complements the creaminess of the dressing.

How long does it take for the gelatin to set?

The gelatin typically takes about 4-6 hours to fully set in the refrigerator, depending on your fridge's temperature. It's best to prepare it a day in advance to ensure it has ample time to chill and thicken properly, especially if you plan to serve it at a gathering.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead as the flavors meld beautifully when allowed to chill overnight. Just ensure it's stored properly in the refrigerator and covered. It can be made up to two days in advance, making it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.

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).

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