Molded Neptune Salad
A colorful, savory seafood and vegetable salad molded into a striking shape, perfect for entertaining or special occasions, blending seafood, cream cheese, and fresh vegetables with a tangy flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 can condensed tomato soup
- 2 small packages (3 oz. each) cream cheese ⓘ
- 2 packages unflavored gelatin ⓘ
- 1/2 cup cold water ⓘ
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion ⓘ
- 1 cup finely chopped celery ⓘ
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper ⓘ
- 2 cans (7 or 8 oz.) lobster or shrimp or tuna or artificial crab ⓘ
Instructions
- Stir the condensed tomato soup and cream cheese in a double boiler until smooth and heated through.
- Dissolve the gelatin in cold water and let it stand until fully dissolved.
- Add the dissolved gelatin to the soup mixture and stir until completely combined. Allow to cool slightly.
- Mix in the mayonnaise, chopped green onion, chopped celery, chopped green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and white pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a square Pyrex dish and chill until firm.
- Cut into squares and serve on lettuce leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. For a twist on flavor, adding a splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish. This salad pairs beautifully with recipes like Aunt Nancy'S Oyster Pie for a delightful seafood-themed meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the molded Neptune salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for an attractive presentation. It can be a refreshing starter or a light main dish, perfect for summer gatherings. Pair it with crusty bread or a light vinaigrette salad to complete the meal. For more seafood inspiration, browse other seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to three days. If you need to reheat, slice a portion and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to bring back some of its original texture, as this dish is best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molded Neptune Salad contains roughly 229 calories, with 15g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2380mg per serving (103% 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 use a different type of seafood in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the lobster, shrimp, or tuna with your favorite seafood or even use a combination. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to complement the specific seafood you choose.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is well covered and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the taste when served the next day.
What can I serve alongside the molded Neptune salad?
This salad pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light pasta salad or some fresh fruit for a balanced meal. It also complements a selection of crackers or bread for added texture.
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).