Picnic Potato Squares
A creamy, savory potato salad squares with vibrant vegetables and a tangy dressing, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle gelatin over 1 cup of milk in a saucepan.
- Place over low heat until gelatin is dissolved.
- Remove from heat and add remaining ingredients, mixing well.
- Add potatoes, carrots, celery, and pickles last to the mixture.
- Pour into a pan and chill until set.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or chives to the mixture. You can substitute Greek yogurt for part of the salad dressing for a tangy twist. If you want a vegetarian option, ensure the gelatin is plant-based. For a bit of crunch, toss in some crushed crackers or nuts before chilling. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
These Picnic Potato Squares are perfect as a light lunch or appetizer. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. They also pair nicely with Bologna Or Ham Salad for a delightful picnic spread. For an extra touch, garnish with additional diced pickles or fresh herbs when serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing as the gelatin may separate upon thawing. When ready to serve, simply cut the squares and enjoy them cold, or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picnic Potato Squares contains roughly 1287 calories, with 20g protein, 195g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2635mg per serving (115% 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 different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even corn. Just ensure they are finely chopped to maintain the texture of the squares. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your taste or what you have on hand.
How long does it take for the squares to set?
Typically, the potato squares will need to chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for complete set and flavor development. The longer they chill, the firmer they will become, making them easier to cut into neat squares.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, these Picnic Potato Squares are ideal for making ahead. Prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This makes them a convenient option for gatherings or picnics, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of the event.
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).