Seven Layer Salad is a classic for a reason. Fresh, colorful, and served cold, it’s perfect for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or potlucks. Each layer adds texture and flavor, making this salad visually stunning and utterly delicious.
📝 Ingredients
Salad Layers:
- Iceberg lettuce – crisp and crunchy, forms the base
- Frozen peas – slightly thawed
- Hard boiled eggs – chopped
- Cheddar cheese – shredded (or small cubes)
- Red onions – finely chopped
- Crispy bacon – or turkey/vegan bacon
- Optional extras: cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, romaine, bell peppers, or chopped chicken
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1–2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra texture
🍳 Instructions
- Prep ingredients: Cook bacon and hard boiled eggs, chop veggies, and shred cheese. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth. Chill in the fridge while assembling.
- Assemble the salad:
- Use a glass or trifle bowl to showcase the layers.
- Layer in this order: lettuce → onion → peas → hard boiled eggs → dressing → shredded cheese → bacon.
- Optional: add extra layers or ingredients to your taste!
- Serve: Keep chilled until serving. Guests can scoop from the top to get all seven layers in every bite.
💡 Tips & Notes
- Timing: Best made 1–2 hours before serving, but you can prep the night before. Keep covered until serving.
- Dressing tweaks: For tangier flavor, increase apple cider vinegar. Add a dash of hot sauce for heat. Miracle Whip can substitute for mayo if you prefer.
- Presentation: Include a small label or note describing the layers for potlucks—everyone loves to admire the colorful ingredients.
- Storage: Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days, though the salad is best enjoyed fresh.
✨ Serving idea: Pair with sandwiches, fried chicken, or other summer favorites. This 7 Layer Salad is refreshing, crunchy, and creamy—a true crowd-pleaser!
