Vegetable Molded Salad
A colorful vegetable molded salad with fresh tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and pimentos, set with gelatin and served with mayonnaise for a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind tomatoes, onion, cucumber, bell pepper, and pimento until well blended.
- Dissolve 1 envelope of gelatin in 1 cup of water over low heat or hot water until fully dissolved.
- Add the dissolved gelatin to the ground vegetable mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Add salt to taste and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into individual molds or a single mold.
- Chill in the refrigerator until set, about 2-3 hours.
- Serve the molded salad with mayonnaise on lettuce leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the vegetable mixture. If you're looking for a vegan option, substitute the gelatin with agar-agar. You can also swap out the pimento for chopped olives for a different taste. Adjust the ketchup and chili sauce based on your spice preference for a milder or bolder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the molded salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves, drizzled with mayonnaise for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with a light vinaigrette or as a side dish to grilled meats. For a festive touch, consider serving it during summer barbecues or holiday gatherings, where it can complement a variety of main dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To serve leftovers, remove from the mold and place on a plate. If desired, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Molded Salad contains roughly 118 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 herbs in this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like basil, dill, or chives can enhance the flavor of your molded salad. Simply chop them finely and mix them into the vegetable blend before adding the gelatin. This adds a refreshing note and makes the dish even more appealing.
What can I substitute for gelatin?
If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, agar-agar is a great substitute for gelatin in this recipe. Follow the package instructions for the correct ratio, as it sets differently than gelatin. It will provide a similar texture while keeping your dish plant-based.
How long does the salad need to chill?
The molded salad should chill in the refrigerator for about 2-3 hours, or until fully set. To ensure it holds its shape, avoid removing it from the refrigerator until it's time to serve. If you're in a hurry, you can also place it in the freezer for a shorter chilling time, but keep a close eye on it.
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).