Tomato Soup Mold
A chilled tomato soup mold with crunchy vegetables, nuts, and savory seasonings, perfect for a light appetizer or elegant party presentation.
Ingredients
- 10 3/4 oz. can condensed tomato soup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 cup cream-style cottage cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped celery ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped radishes ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- whole pimento strips ⓘ
- lettuce leaves ⓘ
- 1/2 chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons sliced onion ⓘ
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, stir together the condensed tomato soup, water, unflavored gelatin, and salt.
- Let stand for 10 minutes to soften the gelatin.
- Stir over low heat until the gelatin dissolves completely.
- Pour the mixture into a large bowl and let it cool slightly.
- Add the cream-style cottage cheese and mayonnaise or salad dressing to the mixture and stir well.
- Cover and chill until the mixture is partially set, with the consistency of egg whites.
- Gently fold in the chopped celery, chopped green pepper, chopped radishes, chopped nuts, and sliced green onion.
- Turn the mixture into a mold and cover.
- Refrigerate until the mold is firm.
- Unmold the chilled tomato soup mold onto a serving platter.
- Garnish with lettuce leaves, whole pimento strips, and green pepper strips before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the gelatin dissolves completely, make sure to stir continuously over low heat. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. For a crunchier texture, substitute sunflower seeds for the nuts. This dish can be served as a refreshing appetizer or a light meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato Soup Mold is a delightful start to any meal. Pair it with a simple green salad or serve alongside crusty bread for a heartier option. For added flavor, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish also fits well into a spread featuring American recipes, making it perfect for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the mold starts to lose its shape, you can gently re-mold it in a bowl. To serve leftovers, you can slice and plate them directly from the fridge, or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Soup Mold contains roughly 54 calories, with 4g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1193mg per serving (52% 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 dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Tomato Soup Mold can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it's tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. This makes it a convenient option for parties or family gatherings, allowing you to focus on other dishes like Chili Corn Casserole.
What can I substitute for the gelatin?
If you're looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, you can use agar-agar as a substitute for gelatin. Follow the package instructions for the correct amount to achieve a similar set. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, but it will still hold up nicely.
How do I serve this mold for a special occasion?
For a special occasion, consider garnishing the Tomato Soup Mold with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch. Arrange it on a platter with colorful vegetables and serve with a variety of dips. This presentation will elevate the dish and impress your guests.
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).