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If you’ve never indulged in a classic 7 Layer Salad Recipe, you’re in for a real treat. This vibrant, crowd-pleasing salad combines fresh, crunchy iceberg lettuce with juicy tomatoes, tender peas, hearty chopped eggs, sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and a luscious creamy dressing that ties all those flavors together perfectly. Every bite offers a delightful mix of textures, from crisp to creamy, making it a staple for potlucks, picnics, or simply any time you want a refreshing yet satisfying dish that feels like a celebration in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential to achieve the perfect balance of freshness, creaminess, and savory notes in the 7 Layer Salad Recipe. Each one brings something special: crispness, color, texture, or that irresistible flavor that makes the salad sing.
- Iceberg lettuce: Chopped for a crisp, cool base that holds up well to the layers above.
- Fresh tomatoes: Either diced or halved cherry tomatoes add juicy sweetness and a pop of red color.
- Frozen peas: Thawed for a slight crunch and subtle sweetness that complements the other vegetables.
- Hard boiled eggs: Peeled and chopped to add a creamy protein-rich layer.
- Green onions: Sliced thinly for a mild onion flavor that brightens every bite.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded, lightly packed for a sharp, savory kick and melty richness.
- Bacon: Crispy and crumbled for a smoky, salty crunch that finishes the salad beautifully.
- Mayonnaise: The base for a creamy dressing that holds all layers together.
- Sour cream: Adds tang and smoothness for the perfect dressing texture.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch to balance the tang and salt in the dressing.
- Seasoned salt: Elevates the dressing with subtle herbs and spices for rounded flavor.
How to Make 7 Layer Salad Recipe
Step 1: Whip up the dressing
Start by combining the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and seasoned salt in a medium bowl. Mixing these ingredients first lets the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich dressing that enhances every layer of this salad.
Step 2: Prepare the lettuce
Use a salad spinner to wash and dry the iceberg lettuce thoroughly. This step is crucial as excess water can make your salad soggy. Then, layer the crisp chopped lettuce evenly at the bottom of a large trifle bowl or a 9×13 baking dish—it acts as the refreshing foundation for the subsequent ingredients.
Step 3: Layer your fresh vegetables and eggs
Next, add your diced tomatoes, followed by the thawed peas, then the chopped hard boiled eggs and green onions in that order. Each of these layers is carefully placed to maintain that signature visual appeal and balanced crunchy-soft texture combo in every forkful.
Step 4: Spread the creamy dressing
Now, generously spread the creamy dressing over the top, carefully reaching the edges. This coating not only binds the salad layers but also adds those lush, tangy, lightly sweet notes that make this salad so addictive.
Step 5: Chill and finish with cheese and bacon
Cover your layered creation and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. The chilling allows all those flavors to harmonize. Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top for a perfect savory and crunchy finish that guests will rave about.
How to Serve 7 Layer Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper and a few sprigs of chopped fresh parsley or chives on top. These simple garnishes add a burst of freshness and a pop of green that contrast beautifully with the rich, colorful layers beneath.
Side Dishes
7 Layer Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, making it a deliciously balanced accompaniment at barbecues or dinner parties. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or even some buttery corn on the cob for a classic summertime feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more modern twist, try layering the ingredients in individual clear cups or mason jars—perfect for portion control and effortless grab-and-go servings. Alternatively, use a large clear trifle bowl to show off the vivid, colorful layers, turning this salad into a stunning centerpiece that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days, as the fresh ingredients and dressing taste their absolute best before the lettuce softens and the layers lose their crispness.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing due to its fresh ingredients and creamy dressing. Freezing would cause the lettuce and vegetables to lose their texture and become watery when thawed.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, serve it chilled to appreciate the refreshing combination of flavors and textures that define this classic 7 Layer Salad Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Iceberg lettuce is preferred for its crunch and ability to hold up under the creamy dressing, but you can swap in romaine or butter lettuce for a slightly softer texture if you like.
Is there a vegetarian version of this 7 Layer Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with smoked tempeh or crispy sautéed mushrooms to maintain that savory, smoky flavor.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad actually tastes better when made ahead. Just be sure to keep the cheese and bacon separate until right before serving to maintain their crisp texture.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute that keeps the creaminess while adding a bit of tang.
How many servings does this 7 Layer Salad Recipe make?
This recipe yields about 12 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any time you want to feed a group with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully nostalgic and satisfying about this 7 Layer Salad Recipe. It’s a true crowd-pleaser with layers of flavor and texture that everyone will love. Whether it’s a sunny picnic, a holiday get-together, or a simple weekday dinner side, this salad brings color, crunch, and plenty of deliciousness to the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite salad that’s both easy and irresistibly good.
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7 Layer Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic 7 Layer Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings. It combines crisp iceberg lettuce, fresh tomatoes, sweet peas, hearty hard-boiled eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, all layered and topped with a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Salad Layers
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes or sliced cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 8 hard boiled eggs, cooled, peeled, and chopped
- ½ cup sliced green onions or diced red onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, lightly packed
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
Instructions
- Prepare Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, granulated sugar, and seasoned salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and set aside.
- Prepare Lettuce Base: Wash and dry the chopped iceberg lettuce thoroughly using a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Place the dry lettuce evenly in the bottom of a large trifle bowl or a 9×13 inch pan to create the base layer of the salad.
- Add Layers: Carefully layer the diced tomatoes over the lettuce, followed by the thawed peas, chopped hard boiled eggs, and sliced green onions, distributing each layer evenly across the salad.
- Top with Dressing: Spread the prepared dressing evenly over the layered vegetables, ensuring the dressing covers the edges for full flavor in every bite.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the salad bowl or pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
- Add Final Toppings Before Serving: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the crumbled bacon, adding a savory crunch and rich flavor contrast.
Notes
- Using a trifle bowl creates an attractive presentation where all the colorful layers can be seen.
- The salad can be made a day ahead to deepen the flavors and save time on serving day.
- Ensure the lettuce is completely dry to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat mayonnaise and sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese.
- If preferred, substitute seasoned salt with regular salt and a pinch of black pepper to taste.
