Peg'S Layered Salad
Peg's Layered Salad offers a crisp, savory combination of fresh vegetables, cheeses, and bacon, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings that enjoy classic American flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the head lettuce, bacon, sugar, bell pepper, cheddar cheese, frozen green peas, onion, and parmesan cheese in a bowl in the given order.
- Chill the layered salad in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
- When ready to serve, add salt to taste, toss the salad gently, and top with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use crispy cooked bacon and freshly grated cheeses. If you're short on time, substitute frozen peas with canned peas, rinsed and drained. For a healthier twist, consider adding diced avocado or using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. To enhance sweetness, a dash of honey can replace sugar. This salad is a great side dish for hearty meals like Mac-Reuben Hot Dish.
Serving Suggestions
This layered salad serves beautifully as a side dish for barbecues or potlucks. Pair it with grilled meats, such as Honey Garlic Spareribs, or serve alongside a light soup for a complete meal. For an added touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover layered salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some of its crunch, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you want to reheat components like bacon, do so in a microwave for about 30 seconds, but keep the salad chilled for serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peg'S Layered Salad contains roughly 11 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 this salad a day in advance. Layer the ingredients as directed, but wait to add salt and any additional toppings until just before serving to maintain freshness. Chilling overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using crispy chickpeas or smoked tofu for a similar texture and flavor profile. Alternatively, turkey bacon can be a lighter option that still adds savory depth to the salad.
Is there a way to make this salad lower in calories?
Absolutely! You can use a lighter cheese, such as reduced-fat cheddar, and replace the bacon with a smaller amount of nuts for crunch. Additionally, using a homemade vinaigrette instead of sugar can lower the calorie count while still providing 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).