Tuna Salad Mold
A colorful and savory cold salad molded into an elegant shape, combining tuna, celery, and olives in a tangy lemon Jell-O base. Perfect for entertaining or light summer meals, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to seafood lovers and those seeking a unique appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the chicken rice soup and water to boiling point.
- Add the lemon Jell-O to the hot mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Allow the mixture to partially set in the refrigerator.
- Once partly set, add the drained tuna, chopped stuffed olives, diced celery, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pour the mixture into molds and chill until fully set.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the lemon Jell-O is fully dissolved in the hot mixture before adding other ingredients. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the lemon Jell-O with lime or orange for a twist. You can also replace tuna with canned salmon or chicken for a variation. Adding diced celery can enhance the crunch and freshness in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tuna Salad Mold on a bed of greens for a refreshing appetizer or light lunch. It pairs beautifully with O'Charley'S Loaded Potato Soup for a hearty meal. Consider serving with whole-grain crackers or toasted bread on the side for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, it’s best to serve the salad cold, but if you prefer a warm dish, you can gently warm it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to maintain an even temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Salad Mold contains roughly 127 calories, with 9g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 910mg per serving (40% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the Tuna Salad Mold can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.
What can I substitute for tuna in this recipe?
You can easily substitute the tuna with canned salmon or shredded cooked chicken for a different flavor profile. Both options work well and maintain the integrity of the dish.
How can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Incorporating diced bell peppers, green onions, or peas can add vibrant color and additional nutrition. You can mix these in when you add the tuna and olives for a refreshing crunch.
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).