Tomato And Orzo Aspic
A refreshing chilled aspic featuring tomato, basil, and pasta flavors, perfect for summer parties or light appetizers, combining savory broth with vibrant vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chill a 6-cup ring mold in the refrigerator.
- If cooked pasta and chopped tomatoes are not chilled, refrigerate them until cold.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved by mixing it with the white wine before adding to the broth. For a more intense flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or adding herbs like thyme. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Chilling the ingredients is crucial for a successful set.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tomato and Orzo Aspic as a unique appetizer or light lunch. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a bowl of Spicy Tomato Soup or a light Mediterranean recipe. Garnish with additional basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the aspic in a microwave or on the stovetop until just warm, but avoid boiling. You can also serve it cold as a refreshing dish straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Orzo Aspic contains roughly 191 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to blanch and peel them first. Make sure to use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Approximately 1.5 to 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes will yield the equivalent of 10 peeled canned tomatoes.
How long does the aspic take to set?
The aspic generally takes about 4 to 6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the day before serving to ensure it is fully firmed up. You can check the consistency by gently shaking the mold before serving.
Can I add other vegetables to the aspic?
Absolutely! You can incorporate finely diced vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them small enough to fit in the mold without hindering the setting process.
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).