Molded Seafood Salad
Molded Seafood Salad is a charming, savory appetizer featuring tender seafood combined with fresh vegetables and a delicate gelatine setting. Its elegant presentation and balanced flavors make it perfect for special occasions, brunches, or as a sophisticated starter for guests seeking a light, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften gelatine in cold water; stir over low heat until dissolved.
- Cool the dissolved gelatine.
- Gradually add the gelatine to the combined cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and salt, mixing well until blended.
- Stir in the canned salmon or imitation crab meat, chopped celery, chopped green onions, and chopped parsley; mix lightly.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly oiled 3-cup mold.
- Chill until the salad is firm.
- Unmold the salad onto a serving plate.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley and lemon slices, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the canned salmon with shredded chicken or tuna if desired. If you prefer a lighter dish, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor. For variation, try incorporating diced bell peppers or olives.
Serving Suggestions
This seafood salad pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crackers for a light lunch or appetizer. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or some toasted baguette slices. For a complete meal, complement it with a bowl of Shrimp And Artichoke Soup for a delightful seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy the salad again, serve it cold straight from the refrigerator; no reheating is necessary. If the salad seems too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molded Seafood Salad contains roughly 214 calories, with 14g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (89% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1153mg per serving (50% 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 seafood salad in advance?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day before your event and allow it to chill in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of gelatine?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the gelatine with agar-agar. Use the same amount as the envelope of gelatine, but be sure to follow the package instructions for dissolving and setting, as it may vary slightly from traditional gelatine.
Is it possible to freeze molded seafood salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this seafood salad as it may alter the texture of the ingredients, especially the cream cheese. It's best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days. If you have a large batch, consider halving the recipe to avoid leftovers.
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).