24 Hour Vegetable Salad
A vibrant, crunchy vegetable salad layered with fresh lettuce, chopped celery, green pepper, sweet onion, and peas, topped with sliced bacon and cheddar cheese. Dressed with mayonnaise and a touch of sugar, it's a flavorful dish perfect for picnics or potlucks, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and fresh tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer shredded lettuce in the bottom of a large dish or bowl.
- Add a layer of chopped celery, then chopped green pepper, and chopped sweet onion.
- Spread frozen peas evenly over the vegetables.
- Crumble cooked bacon over the peas.
- Mix mayonnaise with sugar and spread over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the mayonnaise layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for 12 hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider adding a little sour cream to the mayonnaise mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or even turkey bacon as a healthier alternative. To add more flavor, try incorporating herbs like dill or parsley. This salad can also be made with different beans or grains, similar to Jambalaya Salad, for a heartier version.
Serving Suggestions
This 24 Hour Vegetable Salad is perfect for potlucks and barbecues, pairing beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches. Consider serving it alongside American recipes like Easy Pizza for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or serve with a crusty bread to soak up any extra dressing. It's a crowd-pleaser that works well as a light main or side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, simply give it a gentle stir to mix the layers before plating. Avoid freezing as the texture of the vegetables and dressing may be compromised. If you prefer it warm, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 24 Hour Vegetable Salad contains roughly 518 calories, with 10g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 652mg per serving (28% 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 use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas?
Absolutely! Fresh peas can be used, but they should be blanched slightly to maintain their color and texture. Other fresh vegetables like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes can also be added for extra crunch and flavor.
How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
You can prepare this salad up to 24 hours in advance. The longer it sits, the better the flavors meld together. Just be sure to cover it tightly in the refrigerator to keep it fresh until serving.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the bacon and perhaps adding additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also use a plant-based mayonnaise for a fully vegan version.
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).