Dolly Beck'S Overnight Lettuce Salad
A crisp, flavorful overnight lettuce salad layered with vegetables, mayonnaise, sugar, and Parmesan, offering a creamy texture with a hint of sweetness perfect for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a straight-sided bowl large enough to hold all ingredients.
- Layer vegetables in order given, starting with lettuce.
- Save some lettuce to make a thin top layer.
- Top with the mayonnaise, sealing the edges.
- Sprinkle with the sugar and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight.
- The sugar causes the onions to weep, which makes this salad a success.
- Do not stir.
- Serve carefully to get some of all layers.
- This salad keeps several days if kept refrigerated.
- Lettuce stays crisp if you sealed the edges well with the mayonnaise.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, use fresh, crisp iceberg lettuce and be sure to layer the vegetables gently to maintain their texture. You can substitute the water chestnuts with diced jicama for a similar crunch, and if you prefer a dairy-free option, try a vegan mayonnaise. Adding chopped herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Fly-Off-The-Plate Rolls and grilled meats. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein source, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make it more substantial.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to seal the edges well with mayonnaise to keep the lettuce crisp. This salad can last up to three days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two for optimal freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dolly Beck'S Overnight Lettuce Salad contains roughly 209 calories, with 10g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. 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 a day in advance?
Yes, this salad is actually designed to be made a day ahead! The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, and the onions will weep, enhancing the overall taste. Just ensure it is tightly covered to keep the lettuce crisp.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt to replace the mayonnaise. This will give you a similar creaminess while adding a tangy flavor. Just be mindful of the consistency and adjust the amount accordingly.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To make the salad more visually appealing, consider adding a variety of colored bell peppers or even some shredded carrots. These additions not only enhance the color but also contribute extra nutrients, making the salad even healthier.
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).