Twenty-Four Hour Lettuce Salad
A savory layered salad featuring crisp bacon, fresh peas, shredded lettuce, onions, and cheese, all coated with creamy mayonnaise—perfect for communal gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the shredded lettuce, chopped onion, crumbled bacon, frozen peas, mayonnaise or salad dressing, and shredded cheese in a bowl in the order given.
- Spread mayonnaise over the top, sealing it to the edge of the bowl.
- Cover and chill the salad for 24 hours before serving. It can keep several days if refrigerated and not stirred.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or salad dressing. You can also substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. If you're short on time, pre-packaged shredded lettuce and frozen peas can save you preparation time. The salad can be adapted to include other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Twenty-Four Hour Lettuce Salad is perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks, and it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a hearty soup or a refreshing fruit salad. Garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can last up to three days, but it's best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal freshness. Avoid stirring until you're ready to serve to keep the layers intact. If the salad appears dry after refrigeration, a little extra mayonnaise can be added before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Twenty-Four Hour Lettuce Salad contains roughly 1112 calories, with 30g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1063mg per serving (46% 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 designed to be made a day in advance. Allowing it to chill for 24 hours enhances the flavors as they meld together. Just make sure to seal the top with mayonnaise to keep it fresh.
What type of cheese works best in this salad?
Both Swiss and Cheddar cheese work well, but you can mix them or use your favorite cheese. For a sharper flavor, consider adding a bit of blue cheese or crumbled feta for a delicious twist.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. You can also experiment with different dressings or add nuts for added texture. This salad is versatile and can be tailored to your taste.
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).