Untossed Salad
A layered, no-toss salad featuring crisp bacon, hard-boiled eggs, fresh vegetables, and Swiss cheese, all sealed with mayonnaise for a rich, satisfying flavor combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle the chopped spinach with a little salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Layer the ingredients in a bowl in the following order: spinach, cooked crisp bacon crumbles, chopped hard-boiled eggs, torn lettuce, cooked peas, and chopped sweet onion.
- Spread mayonnaise over the top of the layered ingredients, ensuring it comes to the sides of the dish to seal out air.
- Top the mayonnaise layer with shredded Swiss cheese.
- Refrigerate the salad for several hours or overnight.
- Before serving, spoon deeply into the layered salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of fresh herbs like dill or parsley in the mayonnaise. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace the mayonnaise for a tangy twist. You can also substitute the bacon with smoked turkey or a plant-based alternative if you're looking for a healthier version. Ensure the eggs are well-chilled for easier peeling.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside crusty bread or as a side dish at gatherings. For a festive touch, consider incorporating seasonal ingredients like roasted bell peppers or fresh herbs. It also makes a delightful addition to picnic spreads or potluck events.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as the mayonnaise and eggs may separate. When ready to eat, simply serve chilled without reheating, as the salad is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Untossed Salad contains roughly 1276 calories, with 17g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 135g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2642mg per serving (115% 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?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just layer the ingredients and add the mayonnaise and cheese on top just before serving to keep everything fresh. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining the crispness of the ingredients.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a bacon substitute, consider using smoked tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. You could also try crispy chickpeas for added crunch. Each alternative brings its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
How do I make this salad more filling?
To make this salad more filling, you can add protein-rich ingredients such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even quinoa. Adding nuts like walnuts or almonds can also boost the nutritional value while providing a satisfying crunch. This turns the salad into a more substantial meal.
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).