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Seven Layer Salad 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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