Past Revisited
The 1970s was a unique era characterized by bold and adventurous culinary experiments. Home cooks and professional chefs alike weren’t afraid to push the boundaries of taste and creativity, resulting in some truly bizarre yet fascinating recipes.
From the colorful and whimsical to the downright peculiar, these dishes were emblematic of a decade that celebrated individuality and innovation in the kitchen.
In this blog post, we explore 20 strange recipes from the ’70s that were once all the rage. Whether you find them delightful or dubious, they’re sure to intrigue.
1. Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia Salad was a staple at many 1970s gatherings. This nostalgic dish combined canned fruit cocktail, colorful mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut. It was often served as a dessert or a side dish, depending on the occasion.
The salad’s sweet and tangy flavor profile made it a hit, despite its unconventional ingredients. Introduced in the late ’60s, it gained popularity through the ’70s, symbolizing the era’s love for convenience foods.
Recreate this dish by mixing canned pineapple, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s a sweet trip down memory lane.
2. Aspic Salad
Aspic Salad was a peculiar dish that defined 1970s dinner parties. This savory gelatin mold encased vegetables, meats, and sometimes seafood. The dish’s clear, wobbly appearance was both fascinating and off-putting.
It became a conversation starter, often served at social gatherings. While the texture and concept might seem odd today, in the ’70s, it was an elegant way to present a variety of flavors.
To make it, dissolve unflavored gelatin in broth, pour it over a mix of cooked vegetables and meats, and chill until set. Aspic was truly a culinary adventure.
3. Cheese Fondue
The 1970s cheese fondue parties were a social event not to be missed. This interactive dish involved dipping bread cubes into a pot of melted cheese. It was a communal experience that brought people together.
Originating from Switzerland, cheese fondue became a symbol of the era’s fondness for sharing and entertainment. The rich, creamy texture of the cheese contrasted beautifully with the crunchy bread.
To host your own fondue party, melt a mix of Swiss and Gruyere cheese with white wine and garlic. Serve with a variety of bread and vegetables for dipping.
4. Jell-O Mold
Jell-O molds were a quintessential part of 1970s cuisine. These vibrant gelatin dishes came in all shapes and sizes, often filled with fruit or marshmallows. They were a staple at family gatherings and potlucks.
The versatility of Jell-O allowed for creative combinations, resulting in visually appealing and sometimes surprising flavors. Kids and adults alike enjoyed the wobbly texture and sweet taste.
To make your own, layer different colored gelatin in a mold with fruits like grapes or oranges. Chill until firm, then unmold and serve as a nostalgic dessert.
5. Tang Pie
Tang Pie was an innovative dessert that captured the playful spirit of the 1970s. This no-bake pie featured the drink mix Tang as its star ingredient, mixed with whipped topping and cream cheese.
The result was a bright orange, tangy, and creamy confection that delighted both children and adults. Its ease of preparation made it a favorite for last-minute gatherings.
To recreate this nostalgic treat, blend Tang drink mix into softened cream cheese and fold in whipped topping. Spoon into a graham cracker crust and chill until set. It’s a slice of retro fun.
6. Ham and Bananas Hollandaise
Ham and Bananas Hollandaise was a daring combination that epitomized the experimental nature of 1970s cuisine. This dish involved wrapping bananas in slices of ham, then baking them under a rich hollandaise sauce.
The sweet and savory contrast was a bold culinary statement, showcasing the decade’s penchant for unexpected flavor pairings. Though it might seem unusual today, it was a novelty at dinner parties.
To recreate this dish, wrap peeled bananas in ham slices, place them in a baking dish, cover with hollandaise sauce, and bake until golden. It’s a curious taste of the past.
7. Stuffed Celery Stalks
Stuffed Celery Stalks were a popular appetizer in the 1970s, combining simplicity with a flavorful punch. These crunchy snacks were filled with cheese spread or peanut butter, then topped with paprika for color.
Often served at cocktail parties, they offered a quick and easy option for hosts looking to impress guests. The combination of textures and flavors made them a hit.
To make these at home, fill celery sticks with your favorite spread, sprinkle with paprika, and arrange on a platter. They’re a delightful nod to retro entertaining with minimal effort.
8. Watergate Salad
Watergate Salad, also known as Pistachio Delight, was a quirky side dish that found fame in the 1970s. This green-hued concoction combined pistachio pudding mix, whipped topping, marshmallows, and crushed pineapple.
The unique name reportedly came from its mysterious and somewhat scandalous ingredients, reminiscent of the political scandal of the time. Despite its odd combination, it became a beloved dish at gatherings.
To make your own, mix pistachio pudding with whipped topping, fold in marshmallows and pineapple, and chill. It’s a creamy, nutty tribute to the era’s whimsical culinary creations.
9. Spaghetti-Os Jello
Spaghetti-Os Jello was a truly bizarre creation that amused and puzzled many in the 1970s. This dish involved suspending canned Spaghetti-Os in a gelatin mold.
It represented the decade’s experimental approach to combining disparate elements, creating a dish that was more about visual impact than taste. Served at adventurous dinner parties, it was a conversation starter.
To try this peculiar creation, dissolve unflavored gelatin in Spaghetti-Os sauce, pour over a mold filled with Spaghetti-Os, and chill until firm. It’s a daring taste of retro culinary eccentricity.
10. Eggs in Aspic
Eggs in Aspic was a 1970s dish that showcased the decade’s fascination with gelatin. This savory mold encased boiled eggs in a clear, seasoned gelatin, often with herbs.
Visually striking, the dish was a curious blend of textures and flavors, appealing to those with adventurous tastes. It was a staple at elegant dinner parties, adding a touch of sophistication.
To create Eggs in Aspic, dissolve unflavored gelatin in broth, season, and pour over halved boiled eggs in a mold. Chill until set, then slice and serve as a retro delicacy with visual flair.
11. Perfection Salad
Perfection Salad was a gelatin-based dish that embodied the 1970s love for molded salads. This eye-catching creation featured shredded cabbage, carrots, and celery suspended in a lemon-flavored gelatin.
The contrasting textures and tangy flavor made it a popular addition to picnics and potlucks. Despite its unusual presentation, it was considered a refreshing and healthy option.
To make this salad, dissolve lemon gelatin in water, mix with shredded vegetables, and pour into a mold. Chill until set, then unmold and enjoy as a quirky nod to retro culinary artistry.
12. Ham and Cheese Loaf
The Ham and Cheese Loaf was a savory delight that combined layers of ham, cheese, and bread into a loaf, baked until golden. Popular in the 1970s, it was often served at brunches and gatherings.
The loaf’s hearty and comforting flavors made it a favorite among families. Easy to slice and serve, it was perfect for feeding a crowd.
To make your own, layer slices of ham and cheese between slices of bread, press into a loaf pan, and bake. It’s a retro dish that offers both nostalgia and deliciousness.
13. Liver Pâté
Liver Pâté was a sophisticated appetizer that graced many 1970s tables. This rich and creamy spread, made from liver, butter, and spices, was often served with toast points or crackers.
It represented the era’s appreciation for gourmet foods and elegant presentation. Despite its strong flavor, it became a favorite at cocktail parties and formal dinners.
To prepare your own pâté, blend cooked liver with butter and spices until smooth, chill, and serve with your choice of accompaniments. It’s a decadent taste of retro culinary sophistication.
14. Salmon Mousse
Salmon Mousse was a stylish dish that captured the essence of 1970s fine dining. This creamy mousse combined canned salmon, cream cheese, and gelatin, often molded into decorative shapes.
Its smooth texture and delicate flavor made it a standout at elegant gatherings. It was typically served with crackers or toast, offering a luxurious snack.
To make Salmon Mousse, blend canned salmon with cream cheese, season, and dissolve gelatin into the mix, then mold and chill until set. It’s a retro dish that exudes both charm and flavor.
15. Mock Apple Pie
Mock Apple Pie was a surprising creation that didn’t involve apples at all. This 1970s dessert used crackers, sugar, and spices to mimic the flavor and texture of apple pie.
Born out of necessity during times of scarcity, it became a fun novelty at gatherings. The clever use of ingredients showcased the era’s inventive spirit.
To make this pie, layer crackers with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice in a pie crust, then bake. It’s a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of retro home cooks.
16. Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna Noodle Casserole was a comforting dish that became a family favorite in the 1970s. This casserole combined canned tuna, noodles, and a creamy sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs.
Easy to prepare and budget-friendly, it was a go-to meal for busy households. Its creamy, savory flavors provided warmth and satisfaction.
To recreate this classic dish, mix cooked noodles with canned tuna and a creamy sauce, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden. It’s a nostalgic taste of retro home cooking that continues to please.
17. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake was a dessert sensation that thrived in the 1970s. This cake featured caramelized pineapple rings and cherries arranged on top of a buttery cake.
Its vibrant appearance and tropical flavor made it a hit at parties and gatherings. The cake’s moist texture and sweet, fruity topping delighted dessert lovers.
To bake this retro treat, arrange pineapple rings and cherries in a cake pan, pour batter over, and bake. Once inverted, the caramelized fruits create a stunning and delicious presentation reminiscent of a bygone era.
18. Egg Salad Stuffed Tomatoes
Egg Salad Stuffed Tomatoes were a fresh and flavorful dish that captured the 1970s love for creative presentations. This dish involved hollowing out tomatoes and filling them with creamy egg salad.
The combination of juicy tomatoes and rich egg salad created a delightful contrast, making it a popular choice at picnics and parties. Its colorful and healthy appeal added to its charm.
To prepare, scoop out tomatoes, mix chopped eggs with mayonnaise and seasonings, and fill the tomato shells. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that embodies retro culinary creativity.
19. Bologna Cake
Bologna Cake was an eccentric creation that amused many in the 1970s. This savory cake involved layering slices of bologna with cream cheese, forming a loaf, and garnishing with olives.
The whimsical design and unusual ingredients made it a conversation piece at parties. It was a playful nod to both cake and charcuterie, blending two culinary worlds.
To make your own, stack bologna slices with cream cheese in between, form into a loaf, chill, and garnish. It’s an amusing and unconventional dish that showcases retro culinary humor.
20. Frog Eye Salad
Frog Eye Salad was a quirky dish that intrigued many in the 1970s. Despite its odd name, it was a sweet pasta salad made with acini di pepe pasta, fruits, and whipped topping.
The dish’s unique texture and sweet, fruity flavor made it a hit at family gatherings and potlucks. Its playful name added to its appeal, especially among kids.
To prepare, cook acini di pepe, mix with fruits like pineapple and mandarin oranges, and fold in whipped topping. It’s a fun and nostalgic dish that captures the whimsical spirit of the ’70s.