Red Crest Tomato Aspic
A vibrant tomato aspic with the tang of horseradish and minced onion, complemented by creamy cheese balls, perfect for elegant appetizers or refreshing summer dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the strawberry Jell-O in hot tomatoes.
- Add horseradish, minced onion, salt, and cayenne; force the mixture through a sieve.
- Pour the mixture into individual molds or a flat dish.
- Just before it sets, insert a small ball of highly seasoned cream cheese into each serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, ensure your tomatoes are freshly heated; canned tomatoes can vary in taste. If you prefer a milder aspic, reduce the horseradish and cayenne. You can substitute the strawberry Jell-O with raspberry for a different yet complementary flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using agar-agar instead of Jell-O for a vegan version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Red Crest Tomato Aspic chilled, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color. It pairs beautifully with Old Fashion Coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or fish, and a light salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the aspic in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes to soften before serving. Avoid microwaving directly as it may change the texture, making it less appealing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Crest Tomato Aspic contains roughly 99 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 574mg per serving (25% 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 aspic in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the aspic a day ahead of serving. Just ensure to keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The flavors often meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I serve with this dish?
This aspic makes a unique appetizer or side dish. It pairs well with a light salad, such as cucumber salad, or as part of a buffet spread with other American recipes. Consider adding a creamy dip for an extra layer of flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
While traditional Jell-O contains gelatin, which is not vegetarian, you can easily adapt this recipe using a vegetarian gelatin substitute like agar-agar. This way, you can enjoy the aspic while adhering to a vegetarian diet.
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).