7 Layer Salad Recipe

Introduction

The classic 7 Layer Salad is a colorful and satisfying dish perfect for gatherings or weeknight meals. Combining fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and savory bacon, it offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 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)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ¾ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and seasoned salt until smooth. Set the dressing aside.
2. Step 2: Use a salad spinner to wash and dry the chopped lettuce thoroughly. Place the lettuce evenly at the bottom of a large trifle bowl or a 9×13-inch pan.
3. Step 3: Layer the diced tomatoes over the lettuce, followed by the thawed peas, chopped hard boiled eggs, and sliced green onions.
4. Step 4: Spread the prepared dressing evenly on top, reaching the edges of the bowl or pan.
5. Step 5: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Step 6: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for part of the sour cream and mayonnaise in the dressing.
• Add chopped celery or sliced cucumbers for extra crunch and freshness.
• Use turkey bacon as a lower-fat alternative to regular bacon.
• Prepare the salad a day ahead to enhance the flavors but add cheese and bacon just before serving to keep them crisp.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the bacon and cheese crispy, add these toppings fresh each time you serve leftovers. If the salad looks watery after storing, gently drain excess liquid before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make 7 Layer Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best to prepare the salad a few hours or the night before to let the flavors blend. Just add the cheese and bacon right before serving to maintain their texture.

Can I use other lettuces instead of iceberg?

Iceberg lettuce is preferred for its crispness, but you can substitute with romaine or butter lettuce. Just note that texture and flavor will vary slightly.

7 Layer Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 115 reviews

This classic 7 Layer Salad is a vibrant, flavorful combination of crisp iceberg lettuce, fresh tomatoes, peas, hard-boiled eggs, green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, layered and topped with a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a refreshing side dish, this make-ahead salad is both visually appealing and satisfying.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes (for boiling and cooking bacon)
• Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Vegetables and Toppings

• 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

1. Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, granulated sugar, and seasoned salt. Whisk together until smooth and creamy, then set the dressing aside.
2. Wash and dry lettuce: Using a salad spinner, thoroughly wash and dry the chopped iceberg lettuce to remove any moisture; this ensures the salad stays crisp. Place the lettuce evenly in the bottom of a large trifle bowl or a 9×13-inch pan.
3. Layer the salad: Carefully layer the diced tomatoes over the lettuce, followed by the thawed peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and sliced green onions, spreading each layer evenly.
4. Add the dressing: Spread the prepared dressing evenly over the top of the layered ingredients, making sure to reach the edges for full coverage.
5. Chill: Cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Add final toppings before serving: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the salad, then top with the crumbled bacon for a delicious and colorful finish.

Notes

• For best results, prepare the salad at least a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld.
• You can substitute the iceberg lettuce with Romaine for a slightly different texture.
• To keep bacon crispy, cook it just before serving and crumble on top.
• Seasoned salt can be replaced with regular salt and a pinch of black pepper if preferred.
• This salad is best served chilled and eaten within 24 hours for optimal freshness.

Keywords: 7 layer salad, layered salad, bacon salad, classic American salad, picnic salad, potluck salad, creamy salad