Layered Vegetable Salad π₯
This Layered Vegetable Salad is a delightful medley of crisp vegetables, tangy dressings, and savory bacon bits, all perfectly layered to create a stunning and delicious dish! π It’s a family favorite, loved for its vibrant colors, refreshing crunch, and delightful flavors. With simple ingredients and a quick assembly, this salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones.
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Head of lettuce |
| 1/3 – 1/2 | Onion, thinly sliced |
| 1/2 | Celery stalk, chopped |
| 1/2 | Red bell pepper, diced |
| 1 | tsp Sugar |
| 1 – 1 1/4 | Cucumber, sliced |
| 2 | cups Medium cheddar cheese, shredded |
| 1 | cup Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded |
| 10 | slices Bacon, fried and crumbled |
Dressing:
- Your favorite salad dressing (choose a creamy one for best results)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Vegetables:
- Start by washing and drying the lettuce. Tear it into bite-sized pieces and place them at the bottom of a large serving bowl, creating the first layer.
- Next, add a layer of thinly sliced onions on top of the lettuce. The onions add a zesty kick to the salad.
- Follow with a layer of chopped celery for a refreshing crunch.
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Add Colorful Layers:
- Sprinkle the diced red bell pepper over the celery. The vibrant red color adds visual appeal and a hint of sweetness.
- Lightly sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar over the bell peppers. This helps to balance out the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
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Layer with Cheese:
- Now, it’s time for the cheese! Add a generous layer of medium cheddar cheese over the vegetables. The creamy texture and tangy flavor of the cheese pair perfectly with the crisp vegetables.
- Next, sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese on top of the medium cheddar. This double cheese layer adds richness and depth to the salad.
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Crispy Bacon Topping:
- The piΓ¨ce de rΓ©sistance! Crumble the fried bacon slices and sprinkle them generously over the cheese layer. π₯ The salty, smoky flavor of the bacon takes this salad to the next level of deliciousness.
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Finish with Cucumbers (or Bamboo Shoots):
- Finally, arrange the sliced cucumbers on top of the bacon layer. The cucumbers add a cool and refreshing element to the salad, balancing out the rich flavors.
- Alternative: If you prefer, you can substitute sliced cucumbers with a can of well-drained bamboo shoots. Just remember to blot the bamboo shoots with paper towels to remove excess moisture before adding them to the salad.
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Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
- When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss to combine all the layers and distribute the dressing evenly.
- This Layered Vegetable Salad is best enjoyed fresh, shortly after being made. Serve it as a side dish at a barbecue, potluck, or family dinner. π₯
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Serving and Storage:
- This recipe yields 8 generous servings, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best when enjoyed fresh.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 266
- Fat: 17.2g
- Saturated Fat: 8.5g
- Cholesterol: 54.8mg
- Sodium: 547.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 16.7g
- Fiber: 2.6g
- Sugar: 9.6g
- Protein: 12.3g
Quick Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon. The salad will still be delicious and satisfying!
- Customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables or toppings. Cherry tomatoes, olives, or avocado slices are great additions.
- Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Feel free to adjust the quantities of ingredients based on your personal preference. Add more cheese for extra indulgence or increase the amount of vegetables for a lighter option.
So there you have it β a scrumptious Layered Vegetable Salad that’s bursting with flavors, textures, and colors! π Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation! π
