Festive Layered Salad with Corn and Peas

Name: Festive Layered Salad with Corn and Peas
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups frozen peas, thawed; 2 cups canned corn, drained; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup diced cucumber; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color); 1/2 cup chopped red onion; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking Recipes

This vibrant and colorful Festive Layered Salad with Corn and Peas is perfect for any celebration. It's a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and crunchy textures that will impress your guests.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T19:57:51.250Z

This salad is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a celebration of flavors. Layered with sweet corn, vibrant peas, and a creamy dressing, it's a dish that brings joy to any table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful layers that are visually stunning
Crisp textures that add a delightful crunch
Versatile and can be made ahead of time

      

The Perfect Addition to Any Celebration

This Festive Layered Salad with Corn and Peas is not just a dish; it's a centerpiece that adds vibrancy and excitement to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a summer barbecue, or a casual family get-together, this salad will catch the eye and tantalize the taste buds of your guests. Its colorful presentation and fresh ingredients make it a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Layered salads are particularly appealing because they allow each ingredient to shine while contributing to the overall flavor profile. The combination of sweet corn, crisp peas, and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a medley of tastes that is both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, the creamy dressing ties everything together, making each bite a delightful experience.

Fresh Ingredients for a Wholesome Dish

One of the best aspects of this salad is its use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Frozen peas and canned corn are not only convenient but also packed with nutrients. When combined with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers, you have a dish that is both delicious and nutritious. This salad provides a good source of vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, making it a health-conscious choice for any meal.

Using seasonal ingredients can elevate the flavor profile even further. If you have access to fresh corn during the summer months, consider using it instead of canned corn. The natural sweetness and crunch of fresh corn will enhance the overall texture and taste of your salad, making it even more delightful.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the standout features of this layered salad is its make-ahead convenience. Preparing this dish in advance not only saves you time on the day of your event but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully in the refrigerator. This means that when it's time to serve, you can simply pull it out, garnish, and enjoy with minimal fuss.

To ensure the salad remains fresh, consider storing it in an airtight container. You can prepare the layers a day in advance, but avoid adding the dressing until just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. With this strategy, you can enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures, impressing your guests with your culinary skills.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups frozen peas, thawed
2 cups canned corn, drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup diced cucumber
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix and match your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Layer the Ingredients

In a large glass dish or bowl, start layering the ingredients. Begin with a layer of peas, followed by corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, and red onion.

Add Dressing

Spread a portion of the dressing over each layer as you build the salad to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Repeat Layers

Continue layering the remaining ingredients and dressing until all are used, finishing with a layer of dressing on top.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your beautiful and tasty layered salad!

Tips for Customization

While this recipe is delicious as is, don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. You can easily switch out certain vegetables for others that you enjoy more or have on hand. For instance, adding diced avocado can bring a creamy texture, while black olives can add a salty kick. The versatility of this salad allows for endless variations.

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked and chopped chicken, diced ham, or even chickpeas. These additions will transform the salad into a hearty main dish rather than just a side, making it suitable for lunch or dinner.

Serving Suggestions

This Festive Layered Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats, savory casseroles, or even as part of a buffet spread during celebrations. Its bright colors and fresh flavors can complement many cuisines, making it a versatile addition to your dining table.

For a complete meal, you can also serve it with crusty bread or a light soup. The contrasting textures and flavors will enhance your dining experience, making every bite enjoyable.

Storage and Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 2-3 days, although the texture may change slightly as the vegetables absorb the dressing. For the best taste, consume it within the first day or two to enjoy the crispness of the ingredients.

If you want to keep the salad fresh for longer, consider separating the dressing from the layers until you're ready to serve. This way, the salad remains crunchy, and you can enjoy the layered goodness at your leisure without sacrificing texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a lighter or dairy-free option.

→ Is this salad suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like avocado, olives, or even cooked quinoa for added flavor and nutrition.