About This Recipe
This classic American layered saladfeatures distinct ingredients arranged in visible strata within a clear serving dish. It is traditionally served cold at gatherings and communal meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Requires no cooking beyond eggpreparation
- Visually impressive presentation in clear dish
- Can be prepared 12-24 hours in advance
- Portable for transportation to events
- Customizable with ingredient substitutions
Ingredients
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen peas, thawed
- 6 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1½ cups mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12 oz bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (garnish)
Step by Step Instructions
- Use a 9×13-inch clear glass dish or trifle bowl.
- Layer chopped lettuce evenly across bottom.
- Add diced celery in uniform layer.
- Distribute sliced red onions evenly over celery.
- Spread thawed peas in single layer.
- Arrange chopped hard-boiled eggs over peas.
- Combine mayonnaise and sugar in bowl. Spread mixture evenly over eggs, sealing to edges.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over mayonnaise layer.
- Top with crumbled bacon.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
FAQ
Can I use different vegetables?
Bell peppers, cucumbers, or tomatoes can substitute for celery or onions.
Is there a mayonnaise substitute?
Plain Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise using equal quantity.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Omit bacon and use vegetarian bacon bits or sunflower seeds.
You Must Know
- Mayonnaise layer must completely seal salad to prevent oxidation
- Thoroughly dry all vegetables to prevent watery separation
- Bacon should be fully cooled before crumbling
- Refrigeration time allows flavors to integrate
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
- Do not freeze as texture deteriorates significantly
- Add delicate garnishes immediately before serving