Spicy Tomato & Celery Medley
This refreshing Spicy Tomato & Celery Medley is inspired by the classic Bloody Mary flavors but presented in a vibrant salad form. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a unique side dish, this salad combines juicy tomatoes with crunchy celery and zucchini, all dressed in a zesty horseradish vinaigrette. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings together the savory and spicy notes reminiscent of a traditional Bloody Mary. Enjoy it as a delightful appetizer or a light lunch addition that is sure to impress your guests!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Prepared horseradish
2 tablespoons (none)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Vodka
2 tablespoons (optional)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
Hot pepper sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon (none)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Fresh ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Tomatoes (cherry or grape)
3 pints (cut in half (or cut into chunks if using larger tomatoes))
Celery
4 stalks (cut into 1/4 inch slices)
Zucchini
1 (cut into 1/4 inch slices)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared horseradish, olive oil, vodka (if using), lemon juice, hot pepper sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended and form a smooth dressing.
2
Add the halved tomatoes, sliced celery, and zucchini to the bowl. Gently toss the vegetables with the dressing until they are evenly coated.
3
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
4
Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing zesty flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Tomato & Celery Medley?
It is a refreshing salad inspired by classic Bloody Mary flavors, featuring tomatoes, celery, and zucchini in a zesty horseradish vinaigrette.
What are the primary ingredients in this salad?
The main ingredients are cherry or grape tomatoes, celery, zucchini, and a dressing made of horseradish, olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings.
Is there alcohol in the Spicy Tomato & Celery Medley?
The recipe includes an optional 2 tablespoons of vodka to enhance the Bloody Mary theme.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
The salad should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and to ensure it is served chilled.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe is tagged as vegetarian, though you should ensure your Worcestershire sauce is a vegetarian-friendly brand.
What kind of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
Cherry or grape tomatoes are recommended, but larger tomatoes cut into chunks can also be used.
How should the celery be prepared?
The celery should be cut into 1/4 inch slices.
How should the zucchini be sliced?
The zucchini should be cut into 1/4 inch slices.
What gives the dressing its spicy kick?
The spiciness comes from a combination of 2 tablespoons of prepared horseradish and 1 1/2 teaspoons of hot pepper sauce.
What is the base of the salad dressing?
The dressing base consists of olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
How many pints of tomatoes are needed?
The recipe calls for 3 pints of cherry or grape tomatoes.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh is recommended, you can use bottled lemon juice, specifically 1 tablespoon.
How much olive oil is required?
You will need 2 tablespoons of olive oil for the dressing.
Is Worcestershire sauce included in the recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce is added to provide a savory depth of flavor.
What seasoning is used for the salad?
The salad is seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper.
Do I need to cook any of the vegetables?
No, this is a raw vegetable salad; all ingredients are tossed together fresh.
How should I serve the salad?
Serve the salad chilled, ideally after giving it a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing.
Is this dish suitable for summer?
Yes, it is specifically described as a vibrant summer dish perfect for gatherings.
How many stalks of celery do I need?
The recipe requires 4 stalks of celery.
Can I omit the horseradish?
You can, but it is a key component of the 'Bloody Mary' flavor profile and the zesty character of the dish.
What size bowl should I use?
A large mixing bowl is recommended to ensure you can toss the vegetables and dressing evenly.
What is the texture of this salad?
The salad is a mix of juicy tomatoes and crunchy celery and zucchini.
Can I use this as an appetizer?
Yes, it is described as both a delightful appetizer and a unique side dish.
How do I ensure the dressing is smooth?
Whisk the horseradish, oil, juices, and sauces together thoroughly before adding the vegetables.
Is this salad spicy?
Yes, it is characterized as having a zesty and spicy flavor profile.
How do I prepare the tomatoes?
Cut cherry or grape tomatoes in half, or cut larger tomatoes into chunks.
How much vodka is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of vodka, though it is optional.
Does the recipe contain fiber?
Yes, the vegetables (celery, zucchini, and tomato) are natural sources of fiber.
What should I cover the bowl with while refrigerating?
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid before placing it in the refrigerator.
Can this be a light lunch?
Yes, it is suggested as a great addition to a light lunch menu.