7 Layer Salad Recipe

Introduction

The classic 7 Layer Salad is a colorful and flavorful side dish perfect for gatherings and potlucks. With crunchy vegetables, creamy dressing, and savory bacon, it offers a satisfying mix of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

• 1 small head iceberg lettuce (rinsed, dried, and chopped, about 5 cups)
• 1 cup red onion (chopped, about 1 small)
• 2 cups green pepper (chopped, about 3 medium)
• 1 ½ cups Roma tomatoes (chopped and diced, about 3 medium)
• 6 large hard-boiled eggs (chopped into 8 pieces each)
• 1 cup frozen peas (thawed and divided)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 to 8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 2 cups mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Layer the ingredients in the order listed up to the peas. When adding the peas, reserve a couple of tablespoons to sprinkle on top.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and sugar until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Step 3: Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the pea layer.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top, then add the reserved peas as a final touch.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try mixing a little sour cream into the mayonnaise before spreading.
• You can substitute turkey bacon or omit bacon for a lighter version.
• Using fresh peas instead of frozen adds a sweeter crunch when in season.
• Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld well.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the mayonnaise and fresh ingredients, it’s best eaten within this time. Before serving again, stir gently if desired, or serve as is. Leftovers can be refrigerated but are not recommended for freezing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare 7 Layer Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the salad a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. For best texture, add the bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise for the dressing?

You can substitute Greek yogurt or a mixture of sour cream and yogurt for a lighter, tangier flavor.

7 Layer Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 64 reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 35 minutes plus chilling time
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This classic 7 Layer Salad is a colorful, crunchy, and creamy dish perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or picnic side dishes. The salad features layers of iceberg lettuce, red onion, green pepper, Roma tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, peas, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, all topped with a sweet mayonnaise dressing. It’s easy to prepare and visually appealing with its vibrant layers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables & Eggs

• 1 small head iceberg lettuce, rinsed, dried, and chopped (about 5 cups)
• 1 cup red onion, chopped (about 1 small)
• 2 cups green pepper, chopped (about 3 medium)
• 1 ½ cups Roma tomatoes, chopped and diced (about 3 medium)
• 6 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped into 8 pieces each
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed and divided

Dairy & Meat

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 to 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Dressing

• 2 cups mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

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Instructions

1. Layer the Vegetables and Eggs: In a large serving dish, arrange the chopped iceberg lettuce as the first layer. Follow with the chopped red onion, green pepper, Roma tomatoes, then the chopped hard-boiled eggs in order. This layering creates the base of the salad.
2. Add the Peas: Spread a layer of thawed peas over the eggs, reserving a few tablespoons to sprinkle on top at the end for garnish.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and granulated sugar. Stir thoroughly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Top with Dressing Layer: Evenly spread the sweetened mayonnaise dressing over the layer of peas, covering the salad completely to help hold the layers together.
5. Garnish the Salad: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the dressing. Finally, add the remaining peas on top as a finishing touch for extra color and texture.
6. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up for easier slicing and serving.

Notes

• For best results, use fresh, crisp iceberg lettuce and freshly cooked bacon for optimal texture and flavor.
• This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead, but avoid making it too far in advance to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
• Feel free to substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise to lighten the dressing.
• Hard-boiled eggs can be cooked and peeled ahead of time to save preparation time.
• The salad is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes (includes boiling eggs and cooking bacon)
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: 7 layer salad, layered salad, picnic salad, potluck salad, bacon salad, summer salad