Tomato Aspic Salad
A refreshing and colorful salad featuring the tangy flavors of tomato and lemon jello, complemented by shrimp, celery, and green pepper. Perfect for a light appetizer or a summer dish, this aspic salad offers a unique texture and vibrant presentation that appeals to seafood lovers and those seeking a cool, savory treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the lemon jello with the tomato juice until the jello is dissolved.
- Add the chopped onion, diced celery, chopped green pepper, and drained shrimp to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this dish, consider using vegetable broth instead of tomato juice for a different flavor profile. You can also replace the shrimp with canned tuna or diced cooked chicken to suit your taste. Ensure the jello is fully dissolved in the juice for a smooth texture. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the overall taste. This recipe can easily be adapted to include other vegetables like diced cucumbers or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tomato Aspic Salad as a refreshing appetizer or a light lunch option. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It also complements dishes like Shrimp Newberg, enhancing the seafood theme. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the aspic in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it as the gelatin can lose its structure. It's best served chilled, so if you prefer it cold, enjoy it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Aspic Salad contains roughly 259 calories, with 12g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (116% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 814mg per serving (35% 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 tomato juice?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes by blending them into a juice. However, you may need to adjust the amount of jello based on the acidity and sweetness of the tomatoes. Strain the mixture to remove seeds and skins for a smoother texture.
How long does it take for the aspic to set?
Typically, the aspic will take about 4 to 6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it a day in advance, allowing it to chill overnight. Ensuring that your mold is clean and chilled can help speed up the setting process.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the shrimp with diced vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of tomato juice. Ensure the jello used is gelatin-free, such as agar-agar, to maintain the vegetarian aspect of the dish.
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).