Molded Cucumber Salad
A refreshing and vibrant molded cucumber salad featuring lime gelatin, grated cucumber, and cottage cheese, offering a cool, tangy flavor with a creamy texture. Perfect for light summer meals or as a colorful side dish at gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy crisp, savory, and visually appealing salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lime gelatin in boiling water.
- Stir in the cottage cheese, grated onion, grated cucumber, salt, and mayonnaise.
- Blend the mixture well.
- Pour into a 3- or 4-cup mold.
- Refrigerate until the gelatin is firm.
- Unmold by setting the bottom of the mold in tap water for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cottage cheese is blended well with the other ingredients. If you want a lighter salad, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. To enhance the flavor, add fresh herbs like dill or parsley. You can also experiment with different gelatin flavors if you're feeling adventurous, but lime pairs particularly well with the cucumber.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this molded cucumber salad as a refreshing appetizer or side dish at picnics and barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a slice of Mama'S Sour Cream Pound Cake for dessert, providing a delightful contrast to the salad's flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes too firm, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture can change significantly once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molded Cucumber Salad contains roughly 219 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 781mg per serving (34% 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 well covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight, making it a great option for meal prep.
What can I use instead of lime gelatin?
You can substitute lime gelatin with lemon or orange gelatin for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that this will alter the final taste of the salad, but it can be a fun twist.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. However, always check the gelatin brand you use, as some are derived from animal sources. Look for vegetarian gelatin options if needed.
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).