14 Forgotten Foods From The 1970s Everyone Wants Back
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The 1970s were a unique time for food, with many dishes that have since faded from popularity. But many people today find themselves nostalgic for these retro treats. Let’s take a tasty trip down memory lane and look at some forgotten foods from the 70s that folks wish would make a comeback.
Savory Jell-O Salads
Jell-O salads were a colorful and quirky staple of 1970s dinner tables. These wobbly creations often combined canned fruit, vegetables, and even meats suspended in flavored gelatin. While they might sound strange now, these salads were a symbol of 70s creativity and were surprisingly popular at potlucks and family gatherings.
Spam Casseroles
Spam casseroles were a hearty, budget-friendly dish that many families enjoyed. These casseroles combined cubed Spam with creamy soups, vegetables, and often cheese for a filling meal. They were perfect for feeding a crowd and offered endless variations using pantry staples.
Cheese Fondue
Cheese fondue was a fun, interactive dining experience that brought people together. Guests would gather around a pot of melted cheese, dipping bread cubes, apple chunks, or even roasted potatoes. It was as much about the social aspect as it was about the delicious, gooey cheese.
Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna noodle casserole was a comforting dish that combined canned tuna, noodles, and a creamy sauce. Often topped with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs, it was a go-to meal for busy families. This casserole was easy to prepare and perfect for using up pantry staples.
Gelatin Molds With Savory Fillings
Gelatin molds with savory fillings like shrimp or olives were considered an elegant addition to dinner parties. These colorful, jiggly creations were made by suspending various ingredients in flavored gelatin. Despite their unusual combination of flavors, they were appreciated for their versatility and eye-catching presentation.
TV Dinners
TV dinners were a convenient meal option that came in divided aluminum trays. They typically featured a main dish like Salisbury steak, along with sides such as mashed potatoes and vegetables. While not gourmet, TV dinners were a symbol of modern convenience in the 1970s.
Fruit-Flavored Marshmallow Salads
Fruit-flavored marshmallow salads were a sweet and fluffy treat popular at potlucks. These salads often combined canned fruit cocktail, marshmallows, and a creamy dressing made with whipped topping. They were quick to make and offered a refreshing contrast of textures and flavors.
Tang Chicken
Tang chicken was an innovative dish that used the popular orange drink mix in cooking. The chicken was marinated in a mixture of Tang powder and other ingredients, then battered, fried, and coated in a sweet and tangy sauce. This unique recipe showcased the creative culinary spirit of the 1970s.
Liverwurst Sandwiches
Liverwurst sandwiches were a common lunch option in many American households. Made from liver sausage spread on bread and often paired with mustard or onions, these sandwiches were prized for their rich flavor and affordability. While they fell out of favor for a time, there’s been a recent resurgence of interest in this classic sandwich.
Prune Whip Dessert
Prune whip was a light and fluffy dessert made from pureed prunes, egg whites, and sugar. Despite its humble ingredients, it was beloved for its sweet and slightly tangy flavor. This simple dessert was often served as a refreshing treat, particularly during warmer months.
Cherry Coke Salad
Cherry Coke salad was a dessert that combined the flavors of Cherry Coke with gelatin. This wobbly creation often included chopped fruits and sometimes nuts, resulting in a colorful and fun treat. It was a hit at potlucks and family gatherings, delighting both children and adults.
Carrot and Raisin Salad
Carrot and raisin salad was a popular side dish that added color and flavor to meals. It featured shredded carrots and plump raisins tossed in a sweet and tangy dressing. The combination of crunchy carrots and chewy raisins created a delightful contrast in texture.
Cheese and Pineapple on Toothpicks
Cheese and pineapple on toothpicks were a simple yet elegant appetizer at 1970s parties. This snack consisted of cubes of cheddar cheese and pineapple chunks skewered onto toothpicks. The sharp flavor of the cheese complemented the sweetness of the pineapple, creating a tasty bite-sized treat.
Fruit Cocktail Upside-Down Cake
Fruit cocktail upside-down cake was a delightful dessert that graced many American tables. It was made by placing canned fruit cocktail at the bottom of a baking dish, then topping it with cake batter. When flipped after baking, it revealed a colorful, juicy fruit topping that added both flavor and visual appeal to the moist cake beneath.
15 Annoying Trends Everyone Secretly Hates
15 Annoying Trends Everyone Secretly Hates
