Virginia Salad
A layered, refreshing salad featuring crisp lettuce, crunchy vegetables, chilled peas, and a rich mayonnaise topping, perfect for light gatherings and summer meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer all ingredients in the order given: lettuce, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, chopped celery, and chilled drained English peas.
- Do not mix the layers.
- Cover the layered salad with 1 cup of mayonnaise.
- Sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresh twist, consider adding diced avocado or swapping the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative like cashew cream for a lighter version. You can also replace English peas with chickpeas for added protein. If you're short on time, pre-chopped veggies from the grocery store can save you prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Virginia Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken or BBQ ribs for a delightful summer meal. It pairs beautifully with Rodes Punch, making it an excellent choice for picnics or potlucks. For a more substantial meal, consider adding protein like shredded chicken or chickpeas to elevate it into a main dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Virginia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispness of the lettuce, avoid dressing the entire salad until you're ready to serve. If the salad has been dressed, consume it within 24 hours for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia Salad contains roughly 173 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 Virginia Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers of the salad in advance and store them separately. Assemble the salad and add the mayonnaise and Parmesan just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for mayonnaise, providing creaminess without the extra calories. For a vegan version, consider using a store-bought vegan mayonnaise or a homemade cashew-based dressing.
Is it possible to make this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Virginia Salad is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients. Just ensure that any additional toppings or dressings you use are also gluten-free, especially if you're adding packaged items.
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).