24 Hour Layer Lettuce Salad
A creamy, layered lettuce salad with peas, cheese, bacon, and a sweet mayonnaise dressing, perfect for a make-ahead dish that offers a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the lettuce, diced onion, thawed peas, and crumbled bacon in a dish.
- Spread the Miracle Whip mayonnaise evenly over the layered salad.
- Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the mayonnaise layer.
- Top with the remaining crumbled bacon.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped bell peppers or cucumbers. You can substitute the Miracle Whip with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or use sour cream for a creamier texture. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using green onions instead of regular onions. This salad can be customized by adding different cheeses such as feta or mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks and pairs beautifully with American recipes like Hamburger Upside-Down Cornbread. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become a bit soggy due to the dressing, so it's best to serve it fresh. If you want to keep it crisp longer, store the layers separately and combine them just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 24 Hour Layer Lettuce Salad contains roughly 661 calories, with 30g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (68% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1124mg per serving (49% 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, you can prepare the salad the night before. Just layer all the ingredients, add the dressing, and refrigerate. However, for the best texture, serve it within 24 hours as the lettuce may wilt over time.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
You can add vegetables like diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to keep the layering order so that the dressing does not make the lettuce soggy.
Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and replace it with toasted nuts or seeds for crunch. Additionally, consider using a plant-based mayonnaise to keep the creaminess without the eggs.
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).