24 Hour 7 Layer Salad
A colorful, layered salad featuring fresh vegetables, peas, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for potlucks and gatherings that enjoy rich, creamy textures and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break the lettuce into pieces and layer it at the bottom of a large bowl.
- Add the chopped onion as the next layer.
- Then add the diced celery.
- Follow with the sliced bell pepper.
- Add the cooked peas on top of the layers.
- Spread a layer of mayonnaise over the peas to seal the salad.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mayonnaise layer.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 hours.
- Toss the salad just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced cooked bacon or diced hard-boiled eggs between the layers. You can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise for a lighter version. If you're short on time, pre-packaged salad mixes can work as a shortcut instead of chopping individual ingredients. This dish also works well as a vegetarian option by ensuring no bacon is added.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this 7 Layer Salad as a refreshing side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as part of a vegetarian meal. Consider serving with crusty bread or pairing it with other American recipes like Sweet Corn Cake for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days, as the vegetables may start to wilt. Avoid freezing, as the texture will not hold up well. If the salad seems dry upon serving, simply add a little more mayonnaise to refresh it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 24 Hour 7 Layer Salad contains roughly 611 calories, with 8g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 626mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 perfect for making ahead. In fact, it's recommended to let it sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can substitute Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo if you're looking for a lighter or dairy-free option. Both alternatives will provide creaminess, while Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor.
How do I make this salad more colorful?
To enhance the visual appeal, add more vibrant vegetables like cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, or even purple cabbage. These additions not only add color but also extra crunch and nutrition to the salad.
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).