Twenty-Four Hour Salad
A refreshing layered salad featuring crisp lettuce, sweet peas, and crunchy water chestnuts, topped with creamy mayonnaise and a savory cheese blend. Finished with crispy bacon and fresh tomatoes, this dish is perfect for a family gathering or potluck, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 10 x 13-inch pan, layer chopped lettuce, chopped onion, chopped celery, frozen green peas, and water chestnuts.
- Spread mayonnaise over the layered ingredients, covering all of them.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and sugar over the top of the mayonnaise.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the mayonnaise, followed by mozzarella cheese.
- Cover tightly with Saran Wrap or a pan lid and refrigerate for 24 hours.
- When ready to serve, top the salad with cooked bacon and sliced tomatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mayonnaise. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used instead of frying it yourself. You can also swap out the mozzarella for cheddar for a sharper flavor, or use fresh peas in place of frozen for a crunchier texture.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks and pairs beautifully with dishes like Hash Brown Potato Pie or grilled meats. Serve it alongside crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal. For a more substantial dish, you could add diced chicken or shrimp on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some crunch, so consider adding fresh lettuce or peas when serving. It’s not recommended to freeze this dish due to the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, which may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Twenty-Four Hour Salad contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 4g 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 designed to be made 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it properly covered in the fridge to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for water chestnuts?
If you can't find water chestnuts, you can use chopped jicama or even sliced almonds for crunch. While they won't replicate the exact flavor, they will add a satisfying texture to the salad.
Is it necessary to use both types of cheese?
Using both Parmesan and mozzarella enhances the flavor and texture of the salad, but you can simplify it by using just one type. A sharp cheddar could also add a unique twist if you prefer.
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).