Layered Salad

Layered Salad Recipe from Switzerland with Iceberg Lettuce, Bell Pepper, Peas, Bacon, Swiss Cheese, and Mayonnaise

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Layered salad is a classic dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering. This salad is not only visually appealing with its colorful layers, but it also offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures.

History

The layered salad has been a popular dish in American cuisine since the 1970s. It is believed to have originated in the Midwest, where it became a staple at church potlucks and family gatherings. The beauty of this salad is that it can be customized with a variety of ingredients to suit individual tastes.

Ingredients

1 head of iceberg lettuce
0.5 cup of bell pepper
0.5 cup of green onions
1 package of uncooked but thawed frozen green peas
0.5 cup of mayonnaise
10 slices of cooked bacon
1 cup of shredded swiss cheese

How to prepare

Layer the ingredients in the specified order and refrigerate.

Variations

Add cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for extra freshness.
Use ranch dressing or a vinaigrette instead of mayonnaise for a different flavor profile.
Substitute turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chop the vegetables and bacon into small, bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

- Use a clear glass bowl to showcase the colorful layers of the salad.

- Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the layered salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal. It also pairs well with sandwiches or as a light lunch on its own.

Cooking Techniques

Layer the ingredients in a clear glass bowl to showcase the colorful layers. Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize the ingredients in this recipe to suit your preferences. You can swap out the vegetables, cheese, or dressing for your favorite options.

Make Ahead Tips

The layered salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve. Just be sure to cover the bowl with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the top of the salad with extra bacon, cheese, or fresh herbs for a decorative touch. Serve the salad in individual glass jars for a fun and portable option.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a variety of main dishes, such as grilled meats, sandwiches, or soups. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the layered salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze the salad, as the texture of the vegetables may become mushy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of layered salad contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying and filling dish.

Carbohydrates

The layered salad is a low-carb dish, with most of the carbohydrates coming from the vegetables and peas. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The main source of fat in the layered salad comes from the mayonnaise and bacon. Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

The layered salad is a good source of protein, with bacon, cheese, and peas providing a substantial amount. Each serving contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. It is a nutritious dish that offers a variety of essential nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese), eggs (mayonnaise), and pork (bacon), which may be allergens for some individuals. Please be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies when preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, the layered salad is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a nutritious and delicious option for any meal or gathering.

Summary

Layered salad is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its colorful layers and fresh ingredients, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a sunny day in the early spring, and I was rummaging through some old cookbooks that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, a piece of paper fell out and fluttered to the ground. I reached down to pick it up, and my eyes widened as I saw what was written on it: the recipe for a layered salad.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could feel my mouth watering. Layers of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tangy dressing all stacked high in a glass bowl. It sounded like a work of art as much as a meal.

I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients. Some I already had on hand, like the lettuce and tomatoes from my garden. Others I had to pick up from the store, like the ripe avocados and fresh herbs. As I chopped and sliced, I could feel the anticipation building inside me. This salad was going to be something special.

Once all the ingredients were prepared, I started layering them in a large glass bowl. The vibrant colors of the vegetables contrasted beautifully with the creamy white of the dressing. With each layer added, the salad grew taller and more impressive. I could hardly contain my excitement as I reached the final step: drizzling the dressing over the top and garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

As I stood back and admired my handiwork, I knew this salad was going to be a hit. I could already imagine the looks of delight on my family's faces as they dug into the layers of goodness. And I was right.

From the first bite, my family was hooked. The crunch of the lettuce, the sweetness of the tomatoes, the creaminess of the avocado – it was a symphony of flavors in every mouthful. And the dressing tied it all together perfectly, adding just the right amount of tanginess to the mix.

As we sat around the table, enjoying our meal and each other's company, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of satisfaction. This salad, with its layers of love and care, had brought us together in a way that only food can. It was more than just a recipe – it was a memory in the making.

Since that day, the layered salad has become a staple in our family gatherings. It's the dish I'm known for, the one everyone requests when we have a potluck or picnic. And as I serve it up with a smile, I always think back to that sunny day when I stumbled upon the recipe that would become a cherished part of our family tradition.

So here's to the layered salad – a dish that brings people together, nourishes both body and soul, and reminds us of the power of good food and good company. And here's to the moment I found that recipe, a moment I will always hold close to my heart.