Untossed Molded Salad
A flavorful layered salad with crisp lettuce, crunchy vegetables, sweet peas, creamy mayonnaise, and savory bacon, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start the day before to allow flavors to meld.
- Place the torn iceberg lettuce in a bowl as the base layer.
- Add the sliced celery on top of the lettuce.
- Follow with a layer of diced onions.
- Add the frozen peas as the next layer.
- Spread the mayonnaise evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle the sugar over the mayonnaise layer.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the mayonnaise. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also experiment with different types of lettuce or add in diced bell peppers for extra crunch. Just remember to use high-quality ingredients for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
This untossed molded salad makes a great side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks and pairs beautifully with American recipes like New Fashioned Baked Beans or Everyone'S Favorite Casserole. Serve it chilled for a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats, or enjoy it as a light lunch on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad will continue to develop flavors but may lose some crunch. If you plan to reheat, consider removing the bacon and adding it back in after warming the salad gently to maintain its crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Untossed Molded Salad contains roughly 691 calories, with 8g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% 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 perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
What can I substitute for the bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the bacon with crispy fried shallots or smoked tempeh for a similar flavor profile. For a healthier alternative, consider using turkey bacon or omitting it altogether while adding more vegetables to maintain texture.
Is it possible to use different vegetables in the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even chopped cucumbers. Just ensure that the vegetables are finely chopped to maintain the structure of the layered salad.
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).