Yes, you can put salad in an aluminum foil pan, but there are a few things to consider to ensure that the salad stays fresh and doesn't get soggy:

1. Type of Salad

• Leafy Salads: If you're planning to store a leafy salad (like lettuce, spinach, or arugula), it's best to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. The acidity and moisture from the dressing can make the leaves wilt and become soggy if they sit for too long.
• Pasta Salads or Grain-based Salads: These types of salads are usually better suited for storage in an aluminum foil pan. Their ingredients (pasta, quinoa, couscous, etc.) are more resilient and can hold up well even with dressing applied ahead of time.

2. Layering and Coverage

• If you're planning to transport or store the salad in an aluminum foil pan, it’s a good idea to layer it properly. Place sturdier ingredients (like beans, pasta, or roasted vegetables) at the bottom, and lighter, more delicate ingredients (like lettuce or herbs) on top.
• You might also consider covering the salad with a layer of plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out or absorbing unwanted odors from the fridge.

3. Use of Foil Pan Lids

• Some aluminum foil pans come with lids or can be covered tightly with aluminum foil. This will help keep the salad fresh and prevent contamination, especially if you're storing it for a longer period. A tight cover also helps prevent the salad from wilting or absorbing odors from other food in the fridge.

4. Transporting Salad

• If you are taking the salad to a picnic or a gathering, an aluminum foil pan can be a convenient option for easy transport. It’s lightweight and durable, making it a good choice for outdoor settings. However, again, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

5. Refrigeration Considerations

• When using an aluminum foil pan to store salad in the fridge, ensure that the salad is tightly covered or sealed. Aluminum foil pans do not offer an airtight seal, so they may not keep the salad as fresh as a plastic container with a secure lid.

6. Presentation

• For presentation purposes, while an aluminum foil pan is functional, it might not have the most aesthetically pleasing appearance, especially for salads meant to be served at formal gatherings. In these cases, you might want to consider using a decorative serving bowl instead.

Conclusion:

Aluminum foil pans are perfectly fine for holding salad, especially if you're storing or transporting it. Just be mindful of the salad type, the freshness of the ingredients, and whether or not you'll be adding dressing ahead of time. For longer storage, airtight containers are usually better than foil pans, but for short-term use, an aluminum foil pan will work well, especially for more robust salads.