Mrs. Johnson'S Oriental Salad
Mrs. Johnson's Oriental Salad is a vibrant, tangy mix of beans, vegetables, and a sweet vinegar dressing, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or light, refreshing meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, drain the French-style green beans, wax beans, red kidney beans, cut-up mushrooms, water chestnuts, onion, and celery.
- Heat the sugar and white vinegar until the sugar dissolves.
- Pour the heated mixture over the drained vegetables.
- Toss several times until all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Chill the salad before serving.
- Keep refrigerated for up to a week.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting fresh snap peas or bell peppers for some of the canned vegetables. If you're looking for a sweeter dressing, you can increase the sugar slightly. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the flavor. Make sure to taste the dressing before pouring it over the salad to adjust the sweetness or acidity to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for potlucks and pairs beautifully with Miss Daisy'S Tea Punch for a refreshing drink option. Serve it chilled as a side dish alongside grilled meats or sandwiches. It can also be enjoyed as a light main course, especially when served with crusty bread or a green salad like Cabbage Souffle Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad can last up to a week, making it a great option for meal prep. If you notice the vegetables becoming too soft, you may want to refresh them with a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Johnson'S Oriental Salad contains roughly 448 calories, with 11g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (38% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 505mg per serving (22% 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 fresh vegetables instead of canned for this salad?
Yes, you can use fresh beans and vegetables! Just ensure they are cooked and cooled before mixing. Fresh green beans, mushrooms, and water chestnuts can provide a great texture and flavor. Adjust cooking times accordingly to maintain crispness.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in Mrs. Johnson's Oriental Salad are plant-based, making it a great option for vegan recipes. Just double-check the canned goods for any additives that might not be vegan-friendly, and enjoy this colorful dish.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You could also include diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a more pronounced kick. Adjust according to your heat preference!
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).