Layered 24-Hour Pea Salad
A colorful layered pea salad with crisp lettuce, tender peas, and savory toppings, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, offering fresh flavors and creamy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put shredded lettuce in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Add sliced water chestnuts, frozen peas, chopped onion, chopped celery, salad dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Chill the salad for 24 hours.
- Just before serving, garnish with mashed eggs and bacon bits.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the water chestnuts with diced bell peppers or cucumbers. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the bacon bits or replace them with toasted sunflower seeds for a nutty flavor. Make sure to layer ingredients evenly for the best flavor distribution.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or picnics and pairs beautifully with A Meal In A Pan. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats or a hearty sandwich. For a complete meal, add some crusty bread or a light soup to round out the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the peas and lettuce may become mushy upon thawing. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered 24-Hour Pea Salad contains roughly 1352 calories, with 19g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1513mg per serving (66% 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 perfect for making ahead of time as it benefits from chilling. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to develop. Just add the garnishes of mashed eggs and bacon bits right before serving to keep them fresh.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette can be used instead of mayonnaise. This will give the salad a tangy flavor while reducing calories. You can also experiment with avocado for creaminess without the dairy.
Is this salad suitable for potlucks?
Absolutely! This layered pea salad is a crowd-pleaser and is ideal for potlucks due to its vibrant colors and flavors. Just be sure to keep it chilled until serving time to maintain its freshness and texture.
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).