18-Hour Salad
A creamy, savory layered salad with crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and cheese, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer ingredients in order listed into a large bowl.
- Spread out each layer evenly, including mayonnaise.
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade mayonnaise or a flavored variety. You can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a lighter version. If you're short on time, pre-chopped vegetables are a great shortcut. Adding sliced avocado or nuts can enhance texture and nutritional value, making it more versatile. This salad is perfect for potlucks or gatherings with American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this 18-Hour Salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Ham 'N Broccoli Casserole or grilled meats. For a complete meal, add a slice of crusty bread or a fruit salad on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional cheese for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may become slightly watery as the ingredients release moisture, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the lettuce and mayonnaise may not hold up well. Enjoy cold for best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 18-Hour Salad contains roughly 397 calories, with 10g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is designed to be made ahead! Marinating overnight enhances the flavors, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. If you want to prepare it even earlier, you can chop the vegetables and cook the bacon a day in advance.
What type of lettuce works best for this recipe?
While any crisp lettuce works, romaine or iceberg are excellent choices due to their crunchiness and ability to hold up well in the salad. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can also use spinach or mixed greens, though the texture will differ slightly. Just ensure to wash and dry them thoroughly before layering.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Absolutely! This salad is quite adaptable. You can include ingredients like diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or even cooked pasta for added texture. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and consider adding chickpeas or tofu for protein. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).