Sweet And Sour Aspic
A vibrant, tangy aspic featuring fresh vegetables, pecans, and pimientos set in a sweet and sour gelatin, perfect for elegant salads or appetizer platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, blend together sugar, water, vinegar and salt. Bring to a boil.
- Soften gelatin in cold water and add to the boiling sugar-vinegar mixture, stirring until dissolved.
- Place chopped celery, pecans, diced pimientos, asparagus, lemon juice, and chopped onion in a shallow greased pan.
- Pour the heated gelatin mixture over the vegetables and nuts in the pan.
- Chill in the refrigerator until set.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce and garnish with mayonnaise and paprika.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter taste, consider increasing the sugar slightly or adding a splash of fruit juice to the gelatin mixture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, use agar-agar instead of gelatin, ensuring it sets properly. Feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts or add fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as part of a chilled buffet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour aspic on a bed of crisp lettuce for a refreshing appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Ms. Diane's Pickles for a tangy contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Oven Barbecued Ribs or a light salad. Garnish with a dollop of mayonnaise and a sprinkle of paprika for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the aspic becomes too firm, you can soften it slightly by letting it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed cold, so avoid reheating directly, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Aspic contains roughly 97 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1513mg per serving (66% 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! You can customize the aspic with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or even peas. Just ensure they are chopped into small, uniform pieces for even setting and texture. Experimenting with seasonal vegetables can also add variety.
How long does it take for the aspic to set?
Typically, the aspic will take about 4-6 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it a day in advance, allowing it to chill overnight. This ensures a firmer texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for making ahead of time! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great choice for parties or gatherings. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness.
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).