Quick 'N Easy Tomato Aspic
A refreshing and savory chilled tomato aspic with olives and lemon jello, perfect as an appetizer or light snack for gatherings or summer occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mash the stewed tomatoes in a pan and bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat and add lemon jello and softened plain gelatin.
- Stir until the gelatin and jello are well dissolved.
- Add coarsely chopped or sliced stuffed olives.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the stewed tomatoes instead of mashing them. If you're looking for a less sweet option, consider using unflavored gelatin instead of lemon jello, or try a natural citrus juice for a fresh twist. You can also experiment by adding diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch, making it a versatile dish. This recipe is a fun twist on traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tomato aspic as an appetizer or a side dish at your next gathering. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or as part of a picnic spread alongside items like the Lemon Fruit Slush. For a gourmet touch, garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley, and offer crackers or toasted bread for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until just warmed through, or serve chilled for a refreshing dish. If the aspic has set firmly, you may need to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick 'N Easy Tomato Aspic contains roughly 117 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to cook them down to mimic the consistency of stewed tomatoes. Approximately 2-3 cups of peeled and chopped fresh tomatoes should work. Simmer them until soft, then mash before proceeding with the recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
While the recipe includes gelatin, which is animal-derived, you can easily substitute it with agar-agar or another plant-based gelatin alternative. This makes the aspic suitable for vegan recipes, allowing everyone to enjoy this refreshing dish.
How do I prevent the olives from sinking to the bottom?
To prevent the olives from sinking, you can sprinkle them into the mixture after it has cooled slightly but before it sets. This helps them distribute evenly throughout the aspic. Alternatively, you can reserve some olives to decorate the top once the aspic is set.
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).