24 Salad
A crisp, creamy layered salad featuring lettuce, water chestnuts, peas, and fresh vegetables, topped with mayonnaise and a hint of sweetness—perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer all ingredients in a large casserole that can be covered tightly.
- Spread or pat mayonnaise smoothly on top after all layers are laid.
- Mix 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Sprinkle the mixture over the mayonnaise.
- Top with a mixture of mayonnaise and cheese.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
- Slice to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley. You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use a dairy-free alternative to make it vegan. If you prefer a bit of crunch, add some chopped nuts or seeds. Letting the salad sit overnight enhances the flavor, making it perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a great side dish for barbecues or potlucks and pairs beautifully with Heavenly Corn Pudding. Serve it alongside grilled meats or a hearty sandwich for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra bell pepper on top for a pop of color. Perfect for summer gatherings or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the salad contains mayonnaise, it's best consumed cold. If it thickens in the fridge, add a splash of milk or yogurt to loosen it up before serving again. Avoid freezing as the texture will be compromised.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 24 Salad contains roughly 429 calories, with 10g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 911mg per serving (40% 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 peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas! Just blanch them briefly in boiling water and then cool them in ice water before adding to the salad. Fresh peas will provide a vibrant flavor and crisp texture, enhancing the overall dish.
Is it possible to make this salad a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover it tightly and refrigerate. If you prefer, you can add the mayonnaise topping and seasoning right before serving to keep it fresh.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This salad is naturally gluten-free, as all the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Just ensure that any mayonnaise you use is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Enjoy this refreshing dish without worry!
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).