Make-Ahead Salad
This Make-Ahead Salad is the perfect no-fuss side dish for any gathering, potluck, or holiday meal.
Crisp lettuce, sweet peas, smoky bacon, and creamy dressing come together in one refreshing and satisfying bite. Best of all, you can prepare it in advance—so it’s ready when you are!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for prep: Make it a day ahead and free up time before your event.
Crunchy, creamy, and savory: A winning combo of textures and flavors.
Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone—from picky eaters to salad lovers—will enjoy this.
Great for potlucks and barbecues.
Key Ingredients
Iceberg Lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, it provides the perfect base.
Frozen Peas: Thawed and sweet, they add a pop of color and texture.
Swiss Cheese: Cubed for a mild, creamy bite.
Bacon Bits: Add savory crunch and smoky flavor.
Creamy Dressing: A mix of mayonnaise, Miracle Whip, and sugar with salt and pepper for balance.
Make-Ahead Salad
Ingredients:
Salad:
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
1 (8 oz.) package frozen peas, thawed and drained
1 cup Swiss cheese, cut into cubes
3 green onions, finely chopped
1/2 cup bacon bits
Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup miracle whip
1-2 tablespoons sugar
kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Miracle Whip, and sugar until smooth.
Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Set aside.
Step 2:
To prepare the iceberg lettuce, firmly tap the stem on the counter to loosen it.
Push the stem into the head of lettuce to release it, then discard the stem.
Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and spread it evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 3:
Add the thawed, drained peas, cubed Swiss cheese, and chopped green onions to the lettuce.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
Gently toss until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
Step 4:
Sprinkle bacon bits evenly over the top. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
Recipe Notes
Lettuce Handling Tip: Iceberg lettuce stays crisp longer than most leafy greens, making it ideal for a make-ahead salad. Be sure to chop it just before assembling to keep that freshness.
Thawing Peas: For best texture, thaw peas in the fridge or run them under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid adding excess moisture to the salad.
Swiss Cheese Texture: Cut cheese into small cubes rather than shredding—it adds great texture and prevents the salad from getting soggy.
Let it Chill: While this salad can be eaten right away, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld and the dressing thickens slightly.
Keep Bacon Crisp: If you like your bacon crunchy, wait to sprinkle the bacon bits over the top right before serving.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar in the dressing to your preference—start with 1 tablespoon, taste, and add more if you prefer a sweeter finish.
Presentation Tip: For a layered look, use a clear trifle bowl and build the salad in visible layers—great for parties and potlucks!
Nutrition Information
(Per Serving – Approx. 8 servings)
Calories: 230 | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Carbohydrates: 7g | Sugar: 4g | Protein: 6g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 420mg
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
9×13-inch baking dish or trifle bowl
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Plastic wrap or foil for covering
Recipe Swaps and Variations
Cheese Options: Use shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack instead of Swiss.
Add-ins: Chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots.
Dressing Alternative: Swap Miracle Whip for all mayo, or use a ranch-style dressing.
Low-fat Version: Use light mayo and turkey bacon to cut down on calories.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
Avoid Freezing: Lettuce and dairy don’t freeze well and may become watery or mushy when thawed.
Layer Smart: If prepping for multiple days ahead, wait to add bacon until just before serving to keep it crisp.
Food and Drink Pairings
Main Dishes: Pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, burgers, ribs, or baked ham.
Bread Options: Serve with dinner rolls, cornbread, or a crusty baguette.
Drinks: Try with iced tea, lemonade, white wine, or light beer.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes! Just blanch them quickly and cool before adding to the salad.
Can I use another type of lettuce?
You can! Romaine or butter lettuce works well, but iceberg holds up best in make-ahead salads.
Can I leave out the bacon for a vegetarian version?
Definitely—just skip it or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
What if I don’t like Miracle Whip?
Use all mayonnaise, or swap in Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter dressing.
Can I add other veggies?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or corn all make great additions.
Do I need to dry the peas after thawing?
Yes, pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid watering down the dressing.
How far in advance can I make this?
You can prep it up to 24 hours ahead. Just keep it covered and refrigerated.
Can I layer instead of mixing?
Yes, you can layer the ingredients (like a 7-layer salad) and toss just before serving if you prefer.
Should I chop the lettuce by hand or use pre-chopped?
Chopping by hand gives better texture and freshness, but pre-chopped works in a pinch.
How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Make sure ingredients are well-drained, and don’t overdress. Chill before serving to help it hold up.