Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seven Layer Salad is not only visually stunning, but it’s also a perfect balance of crisp, crunchy, and creamy elements. The layers of lettuce, peas, tomatoes, and cheese are complemented by a creamy dressing that brings everything together. It’s easy to make ahead of time, making it perfect for busy parties or family meals. Plus, it’s a customizable dish—feel free to adjust the layers based on your preferences, or add additional ingredients like bacon or hard-boiled eggs for more variety.

Ingredients

6 cups lettuce (such as iceberg or romaine), chopped
1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup cooked bacon (optional), crumbled
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

Prepare the base: In a large clear glass dish (9×13-inch is ideal), begin by layering the chopped lettuce at the bottom to create the first layer.
Add the peas: Spread the thawed peas evenly over the lettuce layer.
Add the tomatoes: Layer the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the peas, spreading them out evenly.
Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the tomatoes to form the next layer.
Add the red onion: Evenly spread the finely chopped red onion on top of the cheese layer.
Add the bacon: (Optional) Sprinkle the crumbled cooked bacon over the onion layer for extra flavor and crunch.
Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Top the salad: Spread the creamy dressing evenly over the top of the layered ingredients, making sure it covers the entire surface.
Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours minimum
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs make a great addition to this salad, adding extra protein and flavor. Simply slice them and add them as a layer along with the cheese or bacon.
Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use vegan mayo and sour cream, and omit the bacon and cheese. You can also add avocado for creaminess and extra flavor.
Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, feta, or a crumbled goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add Other Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or even grated carrots to make the salad more colorful and flavorful.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover it tightly to keep the dressing from soaking into the vegetables.
Freezing: Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing will not hold up well.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just serve it straight from the fridge.

FAQs

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

Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. It actually tastes better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors have time to meld together.

2. Can I use different types of lettuce?

Absolutely! You can use any type of lettuce, such as spinach, mixed greens, or even kale, depending on your preference.

3. Is Seven Layer Salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it contains only fresh vegetables, cheese, and a creamy dressing.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Yes! You can easily add or swap out other vegetables, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or grated carrots for additional crunch and flavor.

5. Can I omit the bacon from the recipe?

Yes, if you don’t want to use bacon, simply leave it out or substitute it with a vegetarian option like crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for crunch.

6. How long can Seven Layer Salad be stored in the fridge?

It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The layers may begin to soften a little as the dressing soaks into the vegetables, but it will still taste great.

7. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to make the salad a bit healthier while still maintaining its creamy texture.

8. Can I use a different type of dressing?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter dressing, you can use a vinaigrette instead of the creamy mayo-based dressing, or even make a homemade ranch dressing.

9. Can I use frozen bacon instead of fresh?

It’s best to cook the bacon fresh to get the best flavor and crispy texture. However, you can use pre-cooked bacon if that’s more convenient.

10. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe. Just make sure to use a larger dish, and adjust the ingredients accordingly.

Conclusion

Seven Layer Salad is a colorful, flavorful, and customizable dish that’s perfect for gatherings, BBQs, or any occasion where you need a crowd-pleasing side dish. With its layers of fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and optional toppings like bacon and cheese, it’s sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option, saving you time on the day of your event. Whether you serve it as a side or a main, Seven Layer Salad is guaranteed to bring both flavor and fun to your table.