Mayonnaise Salad
A crunchy, creamy layered salad featuring fresh vegetables, peas, water chestnuts, and a mayonnaise dressing, perfect for family gatherings and picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the lettuce, onion, bell pepper, celery, peas, and water chestnuts into layers; do not stir.
- Cover the layered vegetables with mayonnaise.
- Cover tightly and let stand in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Bac*Os.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using homemade mayonnaise instead of store-bought. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier option. Feel free to add diced cucumbers or shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor. If you want to add protein, consider including diced cooked chicken or chickpeas from Vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Mayonnaise Salad is perfect as a side dish for barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside dishes like Hungarian 'Csorge' for a complete meal. For a refreshing touch, serve with a slice of lemon or lime on the side to brighten the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can last up to 3 days. To keep the lettuce fresh, you may want to store the mayonnaise mixture separately and combine it just before serving. Avoid reheating this salad as it is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mayonnaise Salad contains roughly 167 calories, with 8g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 ideal for making ahead. Preparing it the night before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure to cover it tightly to prevent any odors from the fridge affecting the taste.
What can I substitute for the water chestnuts?
If you don't have water chestnuts, you can use diced jicama for a similar crunch. Alternatively, chopped apples can add a sweet and crispy element to the salad.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, substitute mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative and use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
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).