24 hr salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best 24 hr salad recipe

I’ve been making 24 hour salad for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a quick weeknight dinner.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time. I love that it’s a great way to use up any vegetables we have on hand, and it’s also a fantastic way to get in some extra greens.

My kids are big fans of this recipe because it’s fun to watch the ingredients mix together and transform into something new. We often make it on the weekend when we’re busy with sports and activities, and it’s a great way to get everyone fed quickly and easily.

One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can customize it to your taste by adding different vegetables, nuts, or seeds. I’ve also found that it makes a wonderful base for other dishes, like soups or casseroles.

My family loves when I serve this salad with some crusty bread or crackers on the side, and we always have leftovers which is a bonus! As for me, I appreciate how healthy this recipe is – the long marinating time helps break down the tougher vegetable fibers making them easier to digest.

It’s also an excellent way to preserve nutrients in the vegetables which is essential for maintaining good health.

Classic 24 Hour Salad

4.6 from 1331 votes

This make-ahead layered salad features crisp lettuce, peas, celery, and red onion topped with a creamy dressing and crunchy bacon. It is assembled a day ahead so the flavors meld and the dressing soaks into the layers.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time24 hours 30 mins
Servings: 10Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
1 cup celery, sliced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 (10 oz) package frozen peas, thawed
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 hard-boiled eggs, sliced

For the Dressing

1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chopped lettuce in the bottom of a large glass bowl, spreading it into an even layer.
2Top with the sliced celery and finely chopped red onion, making sure to distribute them evenly over the lettuce.
3Sprinkle the thawed peas over the celery and onion layer, then carefully spread the crumbled bacon on top.
4Arrange the sliced hard-boiled eggs over the bacon in a single layer.
5In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
6Spread this dressing evenly over the top of the salad, making sure to cover the entire surface to the edges of the bowl.
7Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dressing.
8Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, and up to 48 hours, to allow the flavors to blend.
9Before serving, remove the plastic wrap and toss the salad gently to combine all the layers.
10Serve chilled directly from the bowl.

🔧Equipment

Large glass or ceramic bowl (3-4 quart)
Small mixing bowl
Whisk
Plastic wrap
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 14g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the dressing. For a crunchier texture, add the bacon right before serving instead of layering it the night before. This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days after the initial 24 hour rest.

Watch Video Of How Classic 24 Hour Salad Works

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – you can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating this salad, I recommend warming it gently over low heat or microwaving it until warmed through.

You can also serve this salad as a main course or side dish – my kids love when I serve it with some crusty bread or crackers on the side. This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it’s so versatile and easy to customize.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About 24 Hour Salad

Q: What is 24 hour salad?

24 hour salad is a simple yet delicious recipe that involves marinating vegetables in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and spices for at least 24 hours before serving.

Q: What kind of vegetables can I use in 24 hour salad?

You can use any combination of vegetables you like, but some popular choices include cabbage, carrots, onions, bell peppers, cucumbers, and zucchini.

Q: How long does it take to make 24 hour salad?

The prep time for this recipe is minimal – simply chop up your desired vegetables and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Q: Can I make 24 hour salad ahead of time?

This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time – simply prepare the ingredients as directed and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Q: Is 24 hour salad healthy?

This recipe is an excellent way to get in some extra greens while also preserving nutrients in the vegetables – just be sure to use healthy oils like olive oil instead of processed ones.

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