Walnut Salad
A refreshing gelatin salad with crisp apples, crunchy black walnuts, and fresh parsley, perfect for light gatherings and holiday tables seeking a balance of sweetness and texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put 1/2 cup cold water into a small bowl.
- Sprinkle two envelopes of unflavored gelatin on water.
- Let stand 5 to 10 minutes to soften.
- Heat 2 cups apple cider until very hot; add 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Remove from heat and immediately add softened gelatin.
- Stir until gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Have a 1-quart mold lightly greased with cooking oil, but do not use olive oil.
- Spoon about 1/2 cup of gelatin mixture into the mold and place in refrigerator.
- Chill remaining mixture until slightly thickened.
- Dice 2 cups apples and chop 1/4 cup black walnuts and 1 tablespoon chopped parsley.
- Add this to the gelatin and pour into the mold which already has a thin bottom layer of gelatin.
- Chill until set.
- Unmold onto a serving plate decorated with lettuce leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before combining it with the other ingredients. You can substitute black walnuts with pecans or regular walnuts if desired. If you want a sweeter flavor, consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to the apple cider before heating. This salad is perfect for holiday gatherings, much like Ornament Dough or other festive dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Walnut Salad chilled on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves for a refreshing appetizer or side dish. It pairs beautifully with Smoked Turkey Or Chicken, making it an excellent choice for holiday meals or picnics. Consider complementing it with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the gelatin becomes too firm, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Reheat gently by placing the mold in warm water to soften the edges if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Salad contains roughly 79 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can use agar-agar as a substitute for gelatin to make this salad vegan. Follow the package instructions for proper ratios, as agar-agar can set differently than gelatin.
How long does this salad need to chill?
The salad should chill for at least 4 hours to ensure it sets properly. If possible, prepare it a day in advance for the best results.
Can I add other fruits to this salad?
Absolutely! You can incorporate fruits like pears or berries for additional flavor and color. Just ensure they are diced similarly to the apples for even distribution in the gelatin.
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).