Seven Layer Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Seven Layer Salad is as gorgeous as it is delicious. It combines fresh textures and flavors — crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, smoky bacon, and a tangy-sweet dressing — in one beautiful dish. Best of all, it can be made ahead, making it convenient for entertaining or meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Iceberg lettuce or romaine, chopped
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Frozen peas, thawed
• Hard-boiled eggs, sliced or chopped
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cooked bacon, crumbled
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Sugar
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the dressing:
   • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
2. Layer the salad:
   • In a large glass bowl (to show off the layers), layer ingredients in this order:
     1. Lettuce
     2. Red onion
     3. Peas
     4. Tomatoes
     5. Eggs
     6. Dressing mixture (spread evenly to cover the top)
     7. Shredded cheese and bacon as the final layer
3. Chill:
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight to allow flavors to blend.
4. Serve:
   • Toss lightly just before serving, or let guests scoop through the layers for a beautiful presentation.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 10 people. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, and chilling takes at least 2 hours. The total time is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Variations

• Healthier Version: Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
• Vegetarian Seven Layer Salad: Skip the bacon or use a vegetarian alternative.
• Add More Layers: Try adding cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots.
• Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, avocado, and a ranch dressing.
• Italian-Inspired: Use mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, olives, and an herbed vinaigrette.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the lettuce may soften after the first day. Do not freeze this salad. To refresh leftovers, toss gently and add a small amount of extra dressing if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I make Seven Layer Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made a few hours ahead so the flavors meld without the lettuce getting soggy.

2. What’s the best bowl to use?

A clear glass bowl works best to showcase the layers.

3. Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, ranch or Caesar dressing are great alternatives to the classic mayo-based version.

4. Can I add meat to make it a main dish?

Absolutely — grilled chicken, shrimp, or ham make it heartier.

5. How do I keep the lettuce crisp?

Place the dressing on top rather than mixing it in until ready to serve.

6. Can I use different cheese?

Yes, try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for variety.

7. What kind of peas work best?

Frozen peas (thawed) are ideal for sweetness and texture — avoid canned peas.

8. Can I make it without eggs?

Yes, simply omit them or replace with another layer like avocado or cucumber.

9. How long does Seven Layer Salad last?

It’s best within 24 hours but can last up to 2 days refrigerated.

10. Can I serve it tossed instead of layered?

Yes, toss all ingredients together for a simpler, more casual presentation.

Conclusion

Seven Layer Salad is a timeless dish that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious. With crisp veggies, creamy dressing, and savory toppings, it brings freshness and flavor to any table. Whether served at a family gathering or a summer picnic, this salad is guaranteed to impress — both in taste and presentation.

Seven Layer Salad

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Seven Layer Salad is a classic, colorful dish made with crisp lettuce, fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and savory toppings like cheese and bacon. Served in a glass bowl, it’s as visually stunning as it is delicious — perfect for potlucks, picnics, or holiday gatherings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
• Yield: 10 servings
• Category: Salad, Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook, Layered
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 head iceberg lettuce or romaine, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced or chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
2. In a large clear glass bowl, layer the ingredients in this order: lettuce, red onion, peas, tomatoes, eggs, dressing, shredded cheese, and bacon.
3. Spread the dressing evenly over the top to seal the salad and prevent wilting.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight for flavors to blend.
5. Before serving, toss lightly or let guests scoop through the layers to enjoy the presentation.

Notes

• For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or light mayo instead of sour cream.
• Keep the dressing on top to maintain lettuce crispness.
• Prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance for best flavor and convenience.
• Showcase the salad in a clear glass bowl to highlight its beautiful layers.
• Add extra layers like bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado for variety.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 95mg