Tomato Pecan Salad
A vibrant and creamy tomato and lemon Jell-O salad with crunchy pecans and fresh vegetables, perfect for light lunches, picnics, or holiday gatherings appealing to a variety of tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the tomato soup and gradually mix in the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Dissolve the lemon Jell-O in the boiling water.
- Combine the tomato soup mixture with the dissolved Jell-O.
- Add chopped celery, grated onion, chopped green pepper, mayonnaise, sliced olives (if using), and chopped pecans to the mixture and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese. You can substitute the lemon Jell-O with lime for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can add a nice touch to the salad. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to avoid separation when chilling. This salad pairs beautifully with Mary Bessey'S Easy Yeast Rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing salad as a light lunch or as a side dish at a picnic or potluck. It complements grilled meats or sandwiches beautifully. For a complete meal, pair it with Southern Cheese Grits or a slice of crusty bread. Garnish with extra chopped pecans or sliced olives for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, it's best to serve it chilled, as the salad is meant to be enjoyed cold. If you'd like to soften it slightly before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Pecan Salad contains roughly 910 calories, with 15g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1180mg per serving (51% 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 salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Prepare it, pour it into the mold, and chill it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, making it even more delicious when served.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, as it contains no meat products. However, ensure that the mayonnaise used is free of any animal-derived ingredients, as some brands may include them.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with various dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also complements light appetizers or can be enjoyed as a refreshing side to heavier entrees.
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).