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–+ servings
Layered Lettuce Salad
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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 190 kcal

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 romaine or iceberg lettuce for the crispest layers.
  • Replace mayonnaise with a lighter yogurt-based dressing.
  • Add sliced boiled eggs for extra protein.
  • Swap bacon bits for real cooked bacon for better flavor.
  • Add shredded carrots or diced bell peppers for more color.
  • Use freshly shelled peas instead of frozen if available.
  • For a healthier version, reduce cheese and omit sugar.
  • Serve in a clear trifle bowl to show off the layers.
  • Stir in sunflower seeds or nuts for crunch.
  • Add a layer of diced chicken to turn it into a full meal salad.

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
Keyword classic American, cold salad, family recipe, layered salad, make-ahead, potluck salad, retro salad, vintage recipe
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