Million Dollar Lettuce Salad
A creamy, layered lettuce salad featuring peas, water chestnuts, and cheeses, perfect for potlucks or family gatherings with fresh and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tear lettuce into small pieces.
- Using a 9 x 11-inch dish or pan, arrange in layers: lettuce, chopped onion, chopped celery, sliced water chestnuts, frozen peas (separated, not cooked), and mayonnaise sprinkled with sugar.
- Spread grated Parmesan cheese on top of the final layer.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Before serving, optionally top with tomato wedges, crumbled bacon, or sliced hard-boiled eggs.
- Mix the salad together just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream to the mayonnaise. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option. If you don't have water chestnuts, chopped nuts can add a nice crunch. Also, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese; feta could be a tasty alternative to Parmesan. This salad is a great addition to your summer gatherings alongside dishes like Garlic Fried Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Million Dollar Lettuce Salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own. For a complete meal, consider adding protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp. You might also want to serve it alongside Toll House Mud Bars for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can become watery as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving. It’s best to keep any toppings, like bacon or tomatoes, separate until you're ready to serve to maintain their freshness and crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Million Dollar Lettuce Salad contains roughly 235 calories, with 8g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and calcium (12% 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, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just layer the ingredients as directed and refrigerate overnight. However, it's best to mix everything together just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a blend of yogurt and mayonnaise. Another option is to make a vinaigrette with olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of mustard for a lighter dressing.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To add more substance to the salad, consider mixing in cooked quinoa or diced chicken. These additions not only enhance the salad's texture but also provide extra protein, making it a satisfying meal on its own.
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).