Refreshing 8-Hour Salad Recipe

Looking for a salad that gets better with time? This 8-hour salad is the answer! It’s a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and a hint of sweetness that all come together to create a refreshing dish perfect for any gathering.

This salad is not just a side dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just mix the ingredients and let them marinate in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over eight hours. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a light lunch at home.

Vibrant Ingredients for a Refreshing Salad

The foundation of this salad is its colorful array of fresh vegetables. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while crunchy cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch. Bell peppers in various hues not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute a mild sweetness.

Complementing these vegetables, crisp lettuce forms the base, making each bite crisp and satisfying. The addition of red onion offers a subtle bite, balancing the salad’s flavors. To elevate the texture, thawed peas incorporate a pop of sweetness, making this salad a delightful mix.

Simple Steps to Prepare

Creating this salad is straightforward and quick. Start by combining all the vegetables in a large bowl. Ensuring even distribution of colors and textures adds to the presentation.

The dressing is just as easy to prepare. Whisk together creamy mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of sugar until smooth. This mixture will enhance the salad’s overall flavors, creating a creamy texture that coats each ingredient beautifully.

The Magic of Marination

One of the standout features of this salad is its marination process. After combining the dressing with the vegetables, cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least eight hours.

This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious dish. The longer it sits, the better it gets, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the creamy dressing. This ensures every bite is as flavorful as the next.

For an added touch, consider garnishing the salad with a sprinkle of shredded cheese. This little detail enhances the dish’s richness while adding visual appeal.

A Perfect Dish for Any Occasion

This colorful salad is versatile, suitable for various occasions. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a picnic, or a simple family dinner, it always impresses. Its refreshing nature pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light lunch.

Moreover, the vibrant presentation makes it a highlight on any table. The rustic bowl and fresh ingredients create an inviting atmosphere, making this salad not just a meal, but a centerpiece.

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond its delightful taste and appearance, this salad offers nutritional benefits. With a balanced mix of vegetables, it provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Each serving is relatively low in calories yet filling, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.

The Ultimate Make-Ahead Salad

This vibrant 8-hour salad features crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a variety of colorful bell peppers, all coated in a sweet and tangy dressing. The longer it sits, the more delicious it becomes, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

• 1 head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, peas, and cheddar cheese.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Mix Everything Together: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Marinate: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
5. Serve: Give the salad a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and enjoy!

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes

• Servings: 6 portions
• Calories: 180kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 15g