Pepino Molded Salad
A refreshing chilled salad featuring tomato juice and fresh vegetables, accented with basil and dill, perfect for light summer gatherings or as a savory appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. unflavored gelatin ⓘ
- 4 c. tomato juice
- 1 Tbsp. minced fresh basil or 1 tsp. dry basil leaves
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. Tabasco sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped celery ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 c. shredded carrot ⓘ
- 2 c. sour cream or yogurt ⓘ
- 1/4 c. snipped dill leaves ⓘ
- fresh basil clusters for garnish ⓘ
Instructions
- Soften gelatin in 1 cup of tomato juice.
- Bring 3 cups of tomato juice to a boil in a non-aluminum saucepan.
- Turn off heat and add the gelatin mixture; stir until dissolved, about 1 minute.
- Add basil, lemon juice, and Tabasco; mix well.
- Stir in chopped celery, green pepper, and shredded carrot into the tomato juice mixture and let cool to room temperature.
- Pour into a mold and place in refrigerator until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the tomato juice before mixing in the gelatin. You can substitute fresh basil with dried herbs or even use Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. If you'd like a spicier kick, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños in place of the green pepper. This salad is a great way to use up extra garden vegetables, making it suitable for summer gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This Pepino Molded Salad can be served as a refreshing appetizer or a side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a light salad. Garnishing with fresh basil clusters adds an elegant touch, making it perfect for summer picnics or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, serve cold directly from the fridge. If you need to reheat, consider gently warming a portion in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat as it may affect the gelatin's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepino Molded Salad contains roughly 122 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (88% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), and iron (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 prepared a day in advance. Just ensure it is fully set before serving. It often tastes even better after sitting for a day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
What if I don't have gelatin?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use agar-agar as a substitute for gelatin. Follow the package instructions for the correct ratio, as it may vary from gelatin. The setting time may be different, so monitor it closely.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like diced cucumbers, radishes, or bell peppers. Just keep the total volume similar to ensure proper setting of the salad. This flexibility makes it a great dish for using seasonal produce.
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).