TV dinners, Jell-O salads, and fondue—the 1970s were a decade rich in culinary experimentation.
Families and friends gathered around meals that were popular at the time. Many of these dishes are no longer served in modern homes, but some have withstood the test of time to become family favorites.
Rediscover these forgotten delights and bring a bit of the ’70s back to your table.
Fondue
Fondue brought people together around a pot of melted cheese or chocolate. Whether you were dipping bread into gooey Gruyère or marshmallows into rich chocolate, fondue was a social experience.
Cheese Balls
The cheese ball combined cream cheese with various seasonings and was rolled in nuts or herbs. Served with crackers, it was an easy and festive appetizer that could be made ahead of time. Despite its retro reputation, a well-made cheese ball is still a delicious and crowd-pleasing snack.
Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia salad combined pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and coconut in a whipped cream base. While it may seem like a quirky throwback, ambrosia salad still delights with its tropical flavors and light, fluffy texture.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs were a party staple, offering a savory bite-sized treat that could be easily customized. The basic recipe of hard-boiled eggs filled with a creamy mixture of yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, and spices still holds up today.
Chicken à la King
Chicken à la King was a ’70s dinner party staple, combining tender chicken, mushrooms, and green peppers in a rich sherry sauce. Traditionally served over rice, toast, or pasta, this dish has a luxurious texture that still delights today. Though it fell out of favor, it remains a delicious way to elevate a simple weeknight meal.
Jell-O Salad
Jell-O salads layered gelatin, fruit, and sometimes even vegetables. These colorful creations could be found at every potluck and family gathering, often topped with whipped cream or sour cream.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Pineapple upside-down cake, a dessert with roots in the ’70s, features a caramelized layer of pineapple slices and maraschino cherries on top of a moist cake. Baked in a single pan, this cake is flipped over after baking to reveal its beautiful topping.
Beef Stroganoff
Beef Stroganoff features sautéed beef in a tangy sour cream sauce, often mixed with onions and mushrooms, served over egg noodles. It’s a perfect example of a hearty and flavorful dish that, despite its decline in popularity, deserves a place on the dinner table again.
Quiche Lorraine
Quiche Lorraine, a classic French dish, was a favorite, combining eggs, cream, bacon, and cheese in a buttery crust. This savory pie is as versatile as it is tasty, making for a perfect brunch or light dinner.
Chicken Marbella
Chicken Marbella was a standout dish from the iconic Silver Palate Cookbook. The recipe calls for marinating chicken with prunes, olives, capers, and garlic before roasting it to perfection. This dish, with its Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, still impresses with its complex and bold flavors.
Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi, featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic and butter sauce with a splash of white wine, was a restaurant favorite in the ’70s. Served over pasta or with crusty bread, this dish was as luxurious as it was simple to prepare. The bright flavors of lemon and parsley made shrimp scampi a timeless dish that’s still worth revisiting.
Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington consisted of beef tenderloin coated with pâté and duxelles, then wrapped in puff pastry. Often reserved for special occasions, this dish was as impressive in presentation as it was in taste.
Goulash
Goulash, a hearty dish with Hungarian origins, was a ’70s favorite, particularly in its Americanized form. This version combined ground beef, macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce for a one-pot meal that was both filling and flavorful.
Aspic
Aspic, a savory gelatin dish, was a showstopper, encasing everything from vegetables to meats in a shimmering mold. Though the idea of gelatinized foods might seem dated, aspic offers a unique texture and presentation that can be both eye-catching and surprisingly delicious when made with high-quality ingredients.
Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan, a creamy casserole made with chicken, broccoli, and a cheesy sauce, was a popular dinner option. Often topped with breadcrumbs or almonds for a bit of crunch, this dish was both satisfying and easy to make.
Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan layered breaded and fried eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella. This Italian-American classic offered a rich and hearty alternative to meat-based entrees. The combination of crispy eggplant and gooey cheese still makes it a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Salmon Mousse
Salmon mousse, a dish often molded into elaborate shapes, was a chic appetizer in the ’70s. Made with poached salmon, cream cheese, and gelatin, it was typically served with crackers or toast points. Despite its retro appearance, the light and creamy texture of salmon mousse makes it an elegant starter for any modern gathering.
Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers, filled with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, were a popular comfort food in the ’70s. Baked until tender and topped with melted cheese, these colorful vegetables offered a complete meal in one dish.
Zabaglione
Zabaglione, an Italian dessert made from egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine, was a sophisticated treat. Light and airy, it was often served with fresh berries or a simple cookie on the side. The delicate balance of sweet and rich flavors in zabaglione makes it a dessert that deserves a comeback.
French Onion Soup
French onion soup was made from a rich broth of caramelized onions and beef stock and topped with a slice of bread and melted cheese. The soup’s deep flavors and comforting warmth made it a favorite in both restaurants and home kitchens.
Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a dish of seasoned ground beef patties served with gravy. Often accompanied by mashed potatoes or vegetables, it was a comforting meal that was easy to prepare. While it might not be as popular today, the savory flavors and nostalgic appeal still hold up.
