Make Ahead Sarah Salad Recipe

Introduction

Make Ahead Salad, affectionately known as Sarah Salad, is a flavorful and convenient dish perfect for holidays or dinner parties. It’s designed to be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld deliciously while saving you time on the day of your event.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of iceberg lettuce
• 6 oz frozen peas
• 1 (8 oz) package sliced Swiss cheese
• 3 stalks green onion
• 12 oz bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Miracle Whip
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the Swiss cheese into small pieces, breaking up any pieces that stick together. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Step 2: Put the frozen peas in a strainer and run warm water over them to thaw. Drain well and add them to the bowl with the cheese.
3. Step 3: Dice the green onions into small pieces and add to the mixing bowl with the cheese and peas.
4. Step 4: Prepare the lettuce by hitting the core on a countertop to loosen it, then discard the core. Slice the lettuce into strips, then turn and slice again to create bite-sized squares. Rinse and dry the lettuce thoroughly, then add it to the bowl with the other ingredients.
5. Step 5: In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Miracle Whip, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
6. Step 6: Pour the sauce over the salad ingredients and toss well to coat everything evenly.
7. Step 7: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Step 8: When ready to serve, give the salad a good toss, top with the cooked crumbled bacon, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use a salad spinner to dry the lettuce quickly and thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• Substitute Miracle Whip with extra mayonnaise if you prefer a richer dressing.
• For added crunch, sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts on top before serving.
• Make sure the bacon is crispy for the best texture and flavor contrast.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Keep the bacon separate until serving to maintain its crispness. Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the dressing evenly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad a day in advance?

Yes, this salad is designed to be made ahead of time. Refrigerate it covered and add the bacon just before serving for the best texture.

What is the best way to crisp the lettuce?

Using a salad spinner after washing the lettuce removes excess water and helps keep the leaves crisp.

Make Ahead Sarah Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 76 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

Make Ahead Salad, also known as Sarah Salad, is a flavorful, layered salad perfect for holidays or dinner parties. This easy-to-prepare salad combines iceberg lettuce, swiss cheese, peas, green onions, and crispy bacon, all tossed in a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. Designed to be made ahead, it allows the flavors to marry beautifully, reducing last-minute meal prep stress while impressing your guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad

• 1 large head of iceberg lettuce
• 6 oz frozen peas
• 1 (8 oz) package sliced swiss cheese
• 3 stalks green onion
• 12 oz bacon, cooked and crumbled

Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Miracle Whip
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cheese and peas: Cut the sliced swiss cheese into small pieces, breaking it apart to prevent clumping. Place frozen peas in a strainer and run warm water over them to thaw. Drain thoroughly and add both cheese and peas to a large mixing bowl.
2. Chop the green onion: Dice the green onions into small pieces and add them to the bowl with the cheese and peas.
3. Prepare the lettuce: Remove the core of the iceberg lettuce by hitting the stem on the countertop until loosened and discard the core. Slice the lettuce crosswise and lengthwise to create small squares. Rinse and thoroughly dry the lettuce using a salad spinner or clean towel. Add the chopped lettuce to the large bowl.
4. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Miracle Whip, sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed and smooth.
5. Combine salad and dressing: Pour the sauce over the salad ingredients and stir thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated.
6. Refrigerate: Transfer the salad to an airtight container, such as a Rubbermaid Brilliance container, and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
7. Serve: When ready to serve, toss the salad again and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top. Serve immediately. Store any leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 48 hours.

Notes

• Making this salad ahead of time enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together in the fridge.
• Ensure the lettuce is thoroughly dry before mixing to avoid wilting the salad.
• Use an airtight container to keep the salad fresh and prevent odors from contaminating other foods in the fridge.
• Crumble the bacon fresh just before serving to retain its crisp texture.
• This salad is ideal for holiday gatherings and potlucks, reducing last-minute preparation stress.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes (bacon cooking time)
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Make Ahead Salad, Sarah Salad, Holiday Salad, Picnic Salad, Party Salad, Creamy Salad, Bacon Salad, Easy Salad, Lettuce Salad