Molded Harvard Beet Salad
A colorful, chilled gelatin salad combining sweet beets, crunchy celery, and tangy horseradish, perfect for festive occasions or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lemon jello in 3/4 cup boiling water.
- Add grated onion and horseradish to the dissolved jello.
- Fold in undrained Harvard beets and diced celery.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and chill until set.
- Serve with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the sweetness of the jello. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, try using agar-agar instead of jello. You can also substitute the horseradish with a touch of wasabi for a different kick. For added texture, mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans.
Serving Suggestions
This Molded Harvard Beet Salad pairs beautifully with sour cream, which adds a creamy contrast to the beets' earthiness. It makes a great side dish for grilled meats or can be served as part of a larger spread including Garden Salad With Almonds And Oranges. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If the salad appears to have lost some of its firmness, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to help it regain its shape.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molded Harvard Beet Salad contains roughly 149 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% 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 tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings.
What can I use instead of beets?
If you want to experiment, diced cooked carrots or roasted sweet potatoes can provide a similar texture and sweetness. Just keep in mind that the color and flavor profile will change significantly.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
To adapt this recipe for vegan diets, simply substitute the jello with a plant-based gelatin alternative like agar-agar. Be sure to check the ingredients of the jello you use, as many contain animal products.
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).