Grammie'S Dig Deep Salad
A layered, flavorful salad featuring crisp lettuce, fresh vegetables, creamy mayonnaise, cheese, and bacon, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 head lettuce, shredded
- 2 medium red onions, sliced ⓘ
- 1 to 2 green peppers, sliced ⓘ
- 3 to 4 ribs celery, chopped ⓘ
- 8 oz. water chestnuts, sliced
- 10 oz. frozen green peas, thawed ⓘ
- 2 c. mayonnaise ⓘ
- 1 c. shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 3 eggs, hard-boiled ⓘ
- 4 strips bacon, crumbled ⓘ
- 1 to 2 tomatoes, sliced
Instructions
- Layer lettuce, red onions, green peppers, celery, water chestnuts, and green peas in a serving bowl in the order given.
- Spread mayonnaise over the top layer.
- Sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese; do not stir.
- Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the water chestnuts with chopped jicama. If you're short on time, use pre-shredded lettuce or a salad mix. To enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the mayonnaise. You can also swap the Cheddar cheese for a sharper variety like aged Gouda for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for potlucks or as a side dish at barbecues. It pairs beautifully with Marcia'S Twice Baked Potatoes or alongside grilled meats. Serve it in individual bowls for a casual gathering, or as a buffet-style dish where guests can help themselves.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become watery as the ingredients release moisture. To refresh it before serving, consider stirring in a bit more mayonnaise or adding fresh veggies to revive its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grammie'S Dig Deep Salad contains roughly 1039 calories, with 41g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (219% of the Daily Value), protein (83% of the Daily Value), and calcium (82% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1412mg per serving (61% 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 best made at least 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve. If you're worried about sogginess, consider adding the crumbled bacon just before serving.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and sour cream for a healthier option. Alternatively, a vinaigrette can add a tangy flavor, but be mindful that it will change the overall flavor profile of the salad.
Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and substitute the hard-boiled eggs with diced avocado or chickpeas for added protein. You can also enhance the salad with additional vegetables like cucumbers or radishes for extra crunch.
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).