Seven Layer Salad Recipe

Introduction

Seven Layer Salad is a classic, colorful dish that combines crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and savory bacon for a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Perfect for potlucks or family meals, this salad is as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Ingredients

• 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 2 cups mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup bacon bits

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash and chop all vegetables. Make sure the iceberg lettuce is thoroughly dried to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
2. Step 2: In a large glass bowl, spread the chopped iceberg lettuce evenly across the bottom to create the first layer.
3. Step 3: Add a layer of diced celery evenly over the lettuce, followed by a layer of diced green bell pepper.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the finely chopped red onion as the next layer, adding sharpness and aroma.
5. Step 5: Spread the thawed peas evenly over the onion layer to add a sweet, earthy flavor.
6. Step 6: In a separate bowl, whisk the mayonnaise and sugar until well combined to make a sweet, creamy dressing.
7. Step 7: Carefully spread the mayonnaise mixture over the peas, covering the entire surface to seal the layers underneath.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the mayonnaise layer for a savory touch.
9. Step 9: Generously top the salad with crispy bacon bits to add crunch and smoky flavor.
10. Step 10: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter dressing, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt while keeping the sugar for sweetness.
• Use cooked and crumbled bacon instead of bacon bits for a fresher, less processed option.
• Add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese or hard-boiled eggs for added richness and protein.
• Ensure the lettuce is very dry to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed within this time for the freshest texture. When ready to serve, give it a gentle stir to mix the layers slightly. If the salad has been sitting, you can add a little extra mayonnaise or dressing to refresh the creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the salad a few hours ahead or even the day before helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until serving.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Fresh peas can be used if they are in season. Blanch them briefly and cool before adding to maintain the salad’s texture and sweetness.

Seven Layer Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 115 reviews

Seven Layer Salad is a classic, colorful layered salad perfect for gatherings and potlucks. It features crisp iceberg lettuce, fresh vegetables, sweet peas, a creamy mayonnaise and sugar dressing, savory Parmesan cheese, and crunchy bacon bits. Chilled before serving, this salad offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors in every bite.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed

Dressing & Toppings

• 2 cups mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup bacon bits

Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables: Wash and chop the iceberg lettuce, celery, green bell pepper, and red onion. Make sure the lettuce is thoroughly dried to prevent excess moisture in the salad.
2. Layer Lettuce: Spread the chopped iceberg lettuce evenly at the bottom of a large glass bowl, creating the base layer for the salad.
3. Add Celery & Bell Pepper: Evenly distribute diced celery over the lettuce, followed by a layer of diced green bell pepper to add color and crunch.
4. Layer Red Onion: Sprinkle the finely chopped red onion evenly over the bell pepper layer for a sharp, aromatic touch.
5. Add Peas: Spread the thawed frozen peas on top of the onion layer, adding sweetness and color contrast.
6. Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and sugar until smooth and well combined, forming a sweet and creamy dressing.
7. Spread Dressing: Carefully spread the mayonnaise-sugar mixture evenly over the pea layer, covering the entire surface to seal the layers beneath.
8. Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dressing layer to add richness and a savory flavor.
9. Top with Bacon Bits: Generously cover the Parmesan cheese with crispy bacon bits to add crunchy texture and smoky flavor to finish the salad.
10. Chill Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set before serving.

Notes

• Be sure to dry lettuce thoroughly to avoid a soggy salad.
• Use freshly cooked and crumbled bacon if preferred instead of store-bought bacon bits.
• For a lighter version, try using reduced-fat mayonnaise.
• This salad is best served chilled to enhance flavor and texture.
• The salad can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated.

Keywords: seven layer salad, layered salad, picnic salad, potluck salad, iceberg lettuce salad, creamy salad, bacon salad