1984 was a banner year for pop culture, with the debuts of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Prince’s Purple Rain, the original Footloose film…and a very special soda that, although long-since defunct, remains near and dear to the hearts of many (including myself): Slice soda. PepsiCo’s brainchild, Slice originally came in lemon-lime, putting it in direct competition with Sprite and 7-Up—which it handily beat if you asked me or any of my teenage friends back then.
Why ’80s Kids are Obsessed With Slice
It wasn’t because Slice contained 10% real fruit juice (although it was the only soda that did). It simply tasted better to us. Perhaps it was because it was slightly sweeter/less crisp than Sprite and 7-Up. Or perhaps it was because the real fruit juice added an irresistible complexity to the flavor profile—I always swore I could taste a hint of pear, making Slice my go-to for wine spritzers when I got older.
Although Slice was well-received and even beloved by its fans, by 2005, it was gone from grocer shelves. Retail analysts attribute Slice soda’s demise, in part, to its diversification into 15 fruit flavors (starting with orange, which was the favorite of many a Slice-o-phile), paving the way for other more recognizably-branded juice-infused drinks to steal its thunder (such as Minute Maid and Sunkist).
The Big Relaunch
But Slice-lovers, it’s time to rejoice—for Slice is making a comeback as a 100% fruit-juice-sweetened soft drink, thanks to Mark Thomann, a Chicago entrepreneur, who possesses what the Chicago Tribune describes as a “knack for reclaiming old brands.” This time, Slice will be getting a bit of a makeover: it will be sweetened exclusively with fruit juice and overall lower in sugar and calories than other soft drinks. The entrepreneur hopes to position the beverage as something between soda and sparkling water (perfect for folks who can’t quite get into LaCroix).
And when this beloved soft drink makes its return, (reportedly sometime this year), you too shall be able to savor its fruit-juicy deliciousness straight-up or use it in cocktail recipes such as this one for wine spritzers and this one for white sangria. Cheers!
These vintage recipes are making a comeback, too!
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Molded Strawberry Salad
This refreshing salad has two layers - a pretty pink bottom that includes sour cream, and a ruby red top with strawberries and pineapple. For years, Mom has included this salad in meals she prepares for our family. -Gloria Grant, Sterling, Illinois
Love that apron in the video? Get it here.
Tuna Noodle Casserole
I love to serve this dressed-up version of a tuna casserole. The green beans add nice texture, color and flavor. The first time I made this dish, my uncle asked for seconds even though tuna casseroles are not usually his favorite. —Jone Furlong, Santa Rosa, California
Want more timeless dishes? Check out our 50 most-shared vintage recipes.
Spiced Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
I often bake this beautiful cake in my large cast-iron skillet and turn it out onto a pizza pan. —Jennifer Sergesketter, Newburgh, Indiana
You can't beat a classic. These old-school recipes DEFINITELY deserve a comeback.
Salmon Mousse Canapes
It’s so easy to top crunchy cucumber slices with a smooth and creamy salmon filling. Guests rave about the fun presentation, contrasting textures and refreshing flavor. —Barb Templin, Norwood, Minnesota
Pina Colada Molded Salad
My gelatin ring gets a tropical twist from coconut, pineapple and macadamia nuts. It's a wonderful anytime treat. Now that I'm retired from teaching, I have more time for kitchen experiments. —Carol Gillespie, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Learn Grandma's secrets to a crowd-pleasing dessert. These 50 vintage desserts are worth trying today.
Crown Roast
I have been making crown roasts for many years but was only satisfied with the results when I combined a few recipes to come up with this guest-pleasing version. It’s beautifully roasted with an apricot glaze and a nicely browned stuffing. —Isabell Cooper, Cambridge, Nova Scotia
Sauteed Radishes with Green Beans
I’ve heard radishes are the only vegetable you don’t cook, but a cookbook from the 1950s disagrees. Green beans and wax beans round out this dish. —Pam Kaiser, Mansfield, Missouri
Deviled Eggs
This updated version of a classic appetizer uses only half the egg yolks of the original recipe and calls for soft bread crumbs to help firm up the filling. We replaced the mayo with fat-free mayonnaise and reduced-fat sour cream. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Swedish Meatballs
I'm a "Svenska flicka" (Swedish girl) from northwest Iowa, where many Swedes settled at the turn of the century. This recipe was given to me by a Swedish friend. It's obviously a 20th century version of a 19th century favorite, since back then they didn't have bouillon cubes or evaporated milk! I think you'll agree that these modern-day "Kottbullar" are very tasty. —Emily Gould, Hawarden, Iowa
Baked Alaskas
Make these baked Alaskas ahead of time—you can torch the completed desserts and freeze them up to 24 hours before serving. —Kerry Dingwall, Ponte Vedra, Florida
Martini
Martinis recipes can be made with either vodka or gin. Our taste panel's preference was for the gin, but try them both and decide for yourself. Be warned, this is a strong and serious drink. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Meat Pie
I work full time as a nurse, so I depend on quick and easy meals like this one. My sister suggested I use canned soups instead of prepared gravy. Now my husband and teenage son ask for seconds and even thirds. —Cheryl Cattane, Lapeer, Michigan
Cucumber Canapes
I always get requests for the recipe for these canapes whenever I serve them. They're delicate finger sandwiches with a creamy herb spread and festive red and green garnishes. —Nadine Whittaker, South Plymouth, Massachusetts
Mango Gelatin Salad
My Aunt Nannette shared this smooth and refreshing salad as a convenient do-ahead dish. The mango and apricot flavors go well with pork, chicken and beef. —Debra Sult, Chandler, Arizona
Three-Bean Baked Beans
I got this recipe from an aunt and made a couple of changes to suit our tastes. With ground beef and bacon mixed in, these satisfying beans are a big hit at backyard barbecues and church picnics. I'm always asked to bring my "special" beans. —Julie Currington, Gahanna, Ohio
Maine Potato Candy
Years ago, folks in Maine ate potatoes daily and used leftovers in bread, doughnuts and other dishes. This potato candy recipe captures all of the old-school flavors. —Barbara Allen, Chelmsford, Massachusetts
Cheese Balls
A handful of simple ingredients that go together in minutes, three fun flavorful options…these creamy cheese balls from our Test Kitchen are a darling, do-ahead delight for busy holiday hostesses! Why not whip up several batches? —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Glazed Ham
This old-fashioned sugar ham glaze gives a pretty, golden brown coating just like Grandma used to make. The mustard and vinegar complement the brown sugar and add tangy flavor to this glazed ham recipe. Be prepared to serve seconds! —Carol Strong Battle, Heathville, Virginia
Old-Fashioned Honey Baked Apples
My baked apple recipe is very old-fashioned yet tried and true. It's definitely a comfort food. —Rachel Hamilton, Greenville, Pennsylvania
Spumoni Baked Alaska
For a refreshing end to a rich meal, try this freezer finale. Its intriguing interior and pretty color scheme are bound to garner oohs and aahs. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Shrimp & Cucumber Rounds
I always make these appetizers for our get-togethers. They're easy to prepare and a snappy addition to any party. —Kelly Alaniz, Eureka, California
Split Pea Soup with Ham
For a different spin on split pea soup, try this recipe. The flavor is peppery rather than smoky. —Barbara Link, Rancho Cucamonga, California
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Milk Shake
I’m not a big sweets person, but I’ll slurp down a milk shake from Steak ‘n Shake any day! —Sarah Cowley, Houston, Texas
American Lasagna
My family first tasted this rich, homemade lasagna recipe at a friend's home on Christmas Eve. We were so impressed that it became our own holiday tradition as well. I also prepare it other times of the year. This classic lasagna recipe is requested often by my sister's Italian in-laws—I consider that the highest compliment! —Lorri Foockle, Granville, Illinois
Bacon Water Chestnut Wraps
The holidays around the house just wouldn't be the same without these classic wraps. Through the years, Christmas Eve guests have proven it's impossible to eat just one. —Laura Mahaffey, Annapolis, Maryland
Creamy Coleslaw
For me, this is the best coleslaw recipe because a package of shredded cabbage and carrots really cuts down on prep time. This creamy coleslaw recipe is great for potlucks or to serve to your family on a busy weeknight. —Renee Endress, Galva, Illinois
Chocolate Cake
This chocolate cake recipe with coffee reminds me of my grandmother because it was one of her specialties. I bake it often for family parties, and it always brings back fond memories. The cake is light and airy with a delicious chocolate taste. This recipe is a keeper! —Patricia Kreitz, Richland, Pennsylvania
Buttery Onion Soup
Several years back, I needed ways to use up 25 lbs. of sweet onions—and this recipe's one I came up with. I like making it for guests. Sometimes, however, I'll fix a half recipe just for me! — Sharon Berthelote, Sunburst, Montana
Pinwheels
I took a couple of my favorite recipes and combined them into these delicious hors d'oeuvres. The colorful and impressive snacks come together easily with refrigerated crescent roll dough, prepared pesto sauce and a jar of roasted red peppers. —Kathleen Farrell, Rochester, New York
Potato Salad
This old-fashioned potato salad recipe doesn't have many ingredients, so it isn't as colorful as many that you find nowadays. But Mama made it the way her mother did, and that's the way I still make it today. Try it and see if it isn't one of the best-tasting potato salads you have ever eaten! —Sandra Anderson, New York, New York
Chicken a La King
When I know I'll be having a busy day with little time for cooking, I prepare this tasty main dish. Brimming with tender chicken and colorful vegetables, it smells so good while cooking. —Eleanor Mielke, Snohomish, Washington
Sangria Gelatin Ring
This gelatin is enjoyed by everyone because you just can't go wrong with fresh berries. —Nicole Nemeth, Komoka, Ontario
Guacamole
Get the scoop on making a standout guacamole. A handful of chopped celery adds some fun crunch in this avocado dip—everyone’s favorite fiesta starter. —Catherine Cassidy, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Banana Cake
I found this recipe more than five years ago and have been making it for family gatherings ever since. The coffee-flavored frosting complements the moist banana cake. —Kathy Hoffman, Topton, Pennsylvania
Mushroom Caps
These crumb-topped appetizers never last long at parties. The rich filling of cream cheese, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese and green onion is terrific. You can broil them in your oven to enjoy any time of year. —Ruth Lewis, West Newton, Pennsylvania
Chicken and Andouille Gumbo
Gumbo goes back to 1700s Louisiana; today's version is just as hearty using andouille sausage. Serve with cornbread or crusty French bread. —Billy Hensley, Mount Carmel, Tennessee
Favorite Coconut Cake
When I need an impressive dessert for a special occasion, this is the recipe I depend on. My guests are glad I do! —Edna Hoffman, Hebron, Indiana
Silver Dollar Burgers
Kids and adults alike will love the taste of these moist and mouthwatering mini burgers. Juiced up with pickle relish and topped with cheese slices, these "sliders" will disappear in no time flat! Be sure to make plenty. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Crab Puffs
I received this recipe years ago from my grandmother. She also told me to have fun being creative and experimenting in the kitchen. My friends request these little puffs at every gathering. —Jean Bevilacqua, Rhododendron, Oregon
Yorkshire Pudding
This easy recipe is a cross between traditional Yorkshire pudding and popovers that makes a great complement to prime rib. We also like it with beef stew and steak. Make more than you need because everyone loves them. —Emily Chaney, Blue Hill, Maine
Angel Food Cake
Angel food cake is everyone’s favorite blank slate for making awesome desserts. Serve it with a simple glaze or pile on fresh fruit, chocolate sauce or nutty sprinkles. —Leah Rekau, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Easy Orange and Red Onion Salad
Here's an unusual salad that’s easy to prepare when holiday obligations have you short on time. The combination of red onions and oranges may seem unusual, but it's surprisingly delightful. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
Cranberry-Orange Roast Ducklings
I came up with this recipe few years ago. The first time I served it, there wasn't a speck of food left on the platter and I knew I had a winning recipe. —Gloria Warczak, Cedarburg, Wisconsin
Olive-Stuffed Celery
My grandmother taught both me and my mom this appetizer recipe for stuffed celery. We always serve it at Christmas and Thanksgiving. The stuffing is so yummy that even if you don't normally care for the ingredients on their own, you'll love the end result. —Stacy Powell, Santa Fe, Texas
Shrimp and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Portobello mushrooms get dressed up for the holidays with a decadent mixture of goat cheese, fresh shrimp and ginger. —Mary Ann Lee, Clifton Park, New York
Sweet-Tart Cucumber Salad
A dear friend showed me how to use up cucumbers in a tangy salad. The longer it chills, the deeper the flavor. Look for lemon or pickling cucumbers. —Dian Jorgensen, Santa Rosa, California
Cranberry Eggnog Salad
For a bright salad with a vintage holiday feel, we stack a layer of raspberry gelatin and cranberry sauce over a yummy pineapple-eggnog base. —Nancy Foust, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania
Crab & Green Onion Dip
This creamy dip reminds me of my dad, who took us crabbing as kids. Our fingers were tired after those excursions, but eating the fresh crab was worth it. —Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey
Mushroom-Stuffed Tomatoes
This side dish is inexpensive, quick to prepare and always a favorite. With plenty of mushrooms, the cheesy mixture stuffed into tomatoes is really decadent. —Florence Palmer, Marshall, Illinois
Creamy Eggs & Mushrooms Au Gratin
When I want a brunch recipe that has the crowd appeal of scrambled eggs but is a little more special, I turn to this dish. The Parmesan sauce is simple but rich and delicious.—Deb Williams, Peoria, Arizona
Rumaki Appetizers
These are a holiday-season "must" in our family. The bacon-wrapped bites are served with a sweet barbecue sauce which is also good with little smoked sausages. —Janice Thomas, Milford, Nebraska
Blue Cheese Souffle
Lightened up to fewer than 100 calories per serving and packed with protein, this rich and flavorful soufflé is a great side for beef. —Sarah Vasques, Milford, New Hampshire
Moscow Mule
Here's an old-time cocktail that was popular in the 1940s and '50s. A Moscow Mule is traditionally served in a copper mug with plenty of ice. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Baked Oysters with Tasso Cream
I love nothing more than a cold beer and a shucked oyster, so when my partners and I opened Saw’s Juke Joint in Birmingham, Alabama, we wanted to add them to the menu. We love making them, we love serving them and our guests love eating them. —Taylor Hicks, Las Vegas, Nevada
Creamy Fresh Asparagus Soup
Tangy lemon and sweet tarragon give this creamy asparagus soup a springtime flavor you’ll savor and share. —Stacy Mullens, Gresham, Oregon
Grilled Kabobs
This is a main dish that makes good use of our delicious Kansas beef. I like to grill outdoors, so this dish is especially popular in our home. —Mynie Lou Griffith, Hutchinson, Kansas
Marinated Three Bean Salad
Fresh herbs and cayenne pepper provide the fantastic flavor in this marinated salad featuring fresh veggies and canned beans. —Carol Tucker, Wooster, Ohio
Peach Gelatin Salad
My mother always asked our family what we wanted to eat for holiday dinners. Without exception, our requests included this refreshing gelatin. Toasted walnuts give it a little crunch. —Dennis King, Navarre, Florida