Make Ahead Layered Salad

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Keyword: bacon, make ahead, salad

Prep Time: 20

Cooking bacon: 10

Total Time: 30

Servings: servings

Calories: 429kcal

Author: clevelandcooking

When I first had this make ahead layered salad I thought it had to be a difficult salad recipe to make. But it's ready in no time! Your guests will love it!

Print Recipe

Ingredients

1 head of iceberg lettuce chopped
2 bell peppers diced
1 12 ounce bag of frozen peas
2 cups of mayonnaise
1 medium red onion diced
1 pound of crumbled cooked bacon
1 cup of shredded parmesan cheese
⅓ cup of sugar

Instructions

In a large bowl or baking dish, layer lettuce, bell peppers, and frozen peas.
Next, spread mayonnaise. Then layer onion, bacon, parmesan cheese, and sugar in order.
Refrigerate up to 24 in advance.
Toss salad before serving.

Notes

How long does this layered salad need to chill before serving? For the best flavor and for the layers to set properly, the salad should chill in the fridge for at least a few hours before you mix and serve it.

Can I make this 24-hour layered salad a day ahead of time? Yes, absolutely! This is a fantastic make-ahead recipe that can be fully assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before you plan to serve it.

What kind of lettuce works best for the base of this layered salad? Iceberg lettuce is traditionally used and works wonderfully for the base of this salad, providing a crisp texture that holds up well.

Can I substitute the bacon in this recipe? Yes, you can easily replace the bacon with other cooked meats like diced ham or turkey. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat entirely or use a plant-based bacon substitute.

What are some good vegetable additions for this layered salad? This salad is very customizable! Beyond the bell peppers and peas, you can add diced celery, broccoli florets, or even thinly sliced banana peppers for extra flavor and crunch.

Can I use a different dressing instead of mayonnaise? While mayonnaise is traditional, you can certainly substitute it with your homemade Ranch dressing recipe for a delicious alternative that still provides a creamy layer.

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