Layered Lettuce Salad is a timeless classic often found at potlucks, church gatherings, and family dinners. It combines crunchy vegetables and savory toppings in an easy-to-assemble format, made ahead and chilled overnight. This salad not only offers texture and flavor contrasts, from crisp water chestnuts to creamy dressing, but also adds visual appeal when layered beautifully in a glass bowl. Its popularity lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it a staple in American comfort food traditions.
Ingredients
- 1 head lettuce (broken into bite-size pieces)
- 1 cup celery (chopped)
- 1 can water chestnuts (sliced)
- 1 pkg frozen peas (10–12 oz, thawed)
- 4-5 green onions (small, sliced)
- 2 tsp sugar
- ¼ cup bacon bits (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
- ½-¾ cup mayonnaise ( or salad dressing)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Lettuce Base
- Break apart 1 head of lettuce and place in the bottom of a large bowl or pan.
Step 2: Add Crunch and Layers
- Sprinkle chopped celery, water chestnuts, and thawed peas evenly over the lettuce.
Step 3: Onion and Sugar Layer
- Add sliced green onions, then sprinkle with sugar to balance flavors.
Step 4: Optional Toppings
- Add bacon bits and shredded cheese if using.
Step 5: Dressing Top Layer
- Spread mayonnaise or salad dressing over the top, covering completely.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate overnight. Toss before serving.
Tips
- Use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of vinegar as a lighter dressing option.
- Substitute iceberg lettuce with romaine for more nutrients.
- Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Swap peas for corn if preferred.
- Present in a clear trifle dish for layered visual appeal.
Nutrition
Calories: 190kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 5gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 11mgSodium: 285mgPotassium: 216mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 512IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 67mgIron: 1mg
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