Too-Mama'S Salad
A colorful, tangy vegetable salad featuring green beans, peas, lima beans, and pimientos, balanced with a sweet and vinegary dressing—perfect for picnics and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the green beans, English peas, and baby lima beans.
- Drain and chop the pimientos.
- Slice the red onion into rings.
- In a saucepan, boil the sugar, vinegar, salt, and Italian salad dressing until the sugar melts.
- Combine the drained vegetables, chopped pimientos, sliced onion, and chopped green pepper in a large bowl.
- Pour the hot dressing over the vegetables and blend well.
- Add the salad oil last and mix thoroughly.
- Refrigerate the salad for 12 to 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of garlic powder to the dressing. If you want a lighter version, substitute the salad oil with a low-fat dressing or yogurt. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the taste as well. You can also use frozen vegetables instead of canned for a fresher crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks, pairing beautifully with Hot And Spicy Franks or grilled chicken. Serve it alongside sandwiches or as part of a buffet spread. For an attractive presentation, garnish with fresh herbs or serve in a decorative bowl.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the beans may become mushy upon thawing. To serve, simply take it out and enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Too-Mama'S Salad contains roughly 203 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1226mg per serving (53% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, it's best to prepare Too-Mama's Salad at least 12 hours ahead of time. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just remember to keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.
What can I substitute for the green beans?
If you prefer, you can substitute the French-style green beans with fresh green beans or even snap peas for a crunchier texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using fresh vegetables.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, Too-Mama's Salad is naturally vegan! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great option for those following vegan recipes. Just ensure that the salad dressing you use is also vegan-friendly.
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).