24 hour salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best 24 hour salad recipe

I’m so excited to share this 24 hour salad recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch or a family gathering.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires no cooking, which is a major plus in my book. I first discovered this recipe on a food blog, and I was immediately drawn to its unique flavor profile and versatility. The combination of greens, vegetables, and nuts is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

And the fact that it can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours makes it a great option for busy households like mine. The key to this recipe is the technique of layering the ingredients in a large bowl, starting with the greens at the bottom. This allows each bite to have a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

I love watching my kids dig in and see the smile on their faces as they take their first bite. One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is its adaptability. You can customize it to your liking by adding or subtracting ingredients, making it a great option for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions.

As we’ve been making this salad for years, I’ve experimented with different variations. Some of my favorites include adding dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet twist, using different types of nuts or seeds for added crunch, or even substituting Greek yogurt for the traditional mayonnaise-based dressing.

24 Hour Salad

4.8 from 1614 votes

A tangy, crunchy salad that develops deeper flavor as it marinates overnight. Perfect for potlucks or make-ahead meals, this salad stays crisp and delicious for days.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time24 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad Base

1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup green bell pepper, diced
1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 (10 oz) package frozen peas, thawed
1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, drained and sliced

For the Dressing

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, diced celery, diced green bell pepper, sliced red onion, thawed peas, and sliced water chestnuts.
2Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
4The dressing should be thick but pourable; if too thick, add a teaspoon of water.
5Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir until all vegetables are evenly coated.
6Cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the salad to soften slightly.
7Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon bits, and chopped fresh parsley over the top.
8Toss lightly to incorporate the toppings, then serve cold.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl with lid or plastic wrap
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Chef’s knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 14g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of half the mayonnaise. The salad keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, making it ideal for meal prep.

Watch Video Of How 24 Hour Salad Works

This salad is always a hit at family gatherings and potlucks. I love how easy it is to make ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until serving.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it to your liking by adding or subtracting ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a delicious side dish, this 24 hour salad recipe is sure to please.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About 24 Hour Salad

Q: What is 24 hour salad?

This salad is called ’24 hour’ because it requires no cooking and can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours without spoiling.

Q: What are the ingredients in 24 hour salad?

The ingredients include mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, carrots, crumbled feta cheese, chopped walnuts, and a homemade vinaigrette dressing.

Q: Can I customize the ingredients in 24 hour salad?

Yes! This salad is highly adaptable. You can add or subtract ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

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

Preparation time is approximately 10-15 minutes. Simply layer all the ingredients in a large bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.

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

Yes! This salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours without losing its flavor or texture.

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