Spinach 24 Hour Salad
A flavorful layered salad featuring fresh spinach, crispy bacon, eggs, peas, and cheese, with a creamy mayonnaise and Miracle Whip dressing, perfect for make-ahead gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a glass bowl, layer spinach, bacon, eggs, lettuce, onion, and peas.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise and Miracle Whip. Spread over the peas.
- Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh spinach and cook the bacon until crispy for added texture. You can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add roasted chickpeas for crunch. Consider mixing in some diced bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a light lunch or side dish at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an excellent accompaniment to dishes like Baked Lemon Pork Chops. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside a warm bowl of Loaded Down Potato Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may become slightly soggy as it sits, so it's best to consume it within this timeframe. If you want to serve it again, mix it gently to redistribute the ingredients before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach 24 Hour Salad contains roughly 28 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 2g 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, this salad is ideal for making ahead. In fact, letting it sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together. Just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a substitute for bacon, try using smoked tempeh or crispy roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Both will provide a similar crunch and depth of flavor without the meat.
How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, layer the ingredients carefully and avoid mixing them until you're ready to serve. Using fresh ingredients and ensuring the dressing is applied evenly can also help maintain the salad's 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).