Seven Layer Salad Recipe

Introduction

Seven Layer Salad is a classic, colorful dish perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. This layered salad combines crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and savory bacon for a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

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. Dry the iceberg lettuce thoroughly 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 form the first layer.
3. Step 3: Add the diced celery as the second layer, spreading it evenly over the lettuce.
4. Step 4: Layer the diced green bell pepper next, creating a colorful vegetable layer.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the finely chopped red onion evenly on top of the bell pepper layer.
6. Step 6: Evenly spread the thawed peas over the onion layer.
7. Step 7: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sugar until smooth and well combined.
8. Step 8: Carefully spread the sweet mayonnaise mixture over the peas, covering the entire surface.
9. Step 9: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the mayonnaise layer.
10. Step 10: Finish by topping the salad generously with crispy bacon bits.
11. Step 11: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 to 4 hours to let the flavors meld and the layers set.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add chopped hard-boiled eggs as an additional layer on top of the peas before spreading the dressing.
• Use Greek yogurt mixed with mayonnaise to lighten the dressing while keeping it creamy.
• Bacon bits can be substituted with cooked and crumbled pancetta or smoked turkey bacon for a different smoky flavor.
• To add a fresh element, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives before serving.

Storage

Store the seven layer salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving if you prefer a mixed texture. Avoid storing the salad at room temperature for extended periods to maintain freshness and safety.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the salad the day before?

Yes, preparing the salad a few hours or the day before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover and refrigerate it until ready to serve.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Fresh peas can be used if they are in season and tender. Simply blanch them briefly in boiling water, then cool before adding to the salad.

Seven Layer Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 68 reviews

Seven Layer Salad is a classic layered salad perfect for picnics and potlucks, featuring crisp iceberg lettuce, crunchy vegetables, sweet peas, a creamy mayonnaise dressing, savory Parmesan cheese, and crispy bacon for a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Layers

• 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. Prepare Ingredients: Wash and chop all vegetables thoroughly. Make sure to dry the iceberg lettuce completely to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
2. Layer Lettuce: Spread the chopped iceberg lettuce evenly in the bottom of a large glass bowl to create the base layer for the salad.
3. Add Celery Layer: Evenly distribute the diced celery over the lettuce layer to add a fresh crunch.
4. Add Green Bell Pepper: Spread the diced green bell pepper evenly on top of the celery to bring color and mild sweetness.
5. Add Red Onion: Sprinkle the finely chopped red onion as the next layer, providing a sharp, aromatic component.
6. Add Peas: Spread the thawed frozen peas evenly over the onion layer, adding a sweet and slightly earthy flavor.
7. Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sugar until smooth and well combined to create a sweet, creamy dressing.
8. Top with Dressing: Carefully spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the pea layer to cover the salad and help bind the layers together.
9. Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the mayonnaise layer to add a salty, savory depth.
10. Finish with Bacon Bits: Generously top the salad with crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch that complements all layers.
11. Chill Salad: Cover the salad 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

• For best texture, ensure lettuce is completely dry before layering.
• Adjust sugar in dressing to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
• Use freshly cooked bacon and crumble it yourself for extra flavor.
• This salad can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated.
• Serve chilled for optimal taste and texture.

Keywords: Seven Layer Salad, layered salad, picnic salad, no-cook salad, mayo salad, bacon salad, summer salad