If you’re craving a vibrant, crunchy, and utterly satisfying salad that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds, then this 7 Layer Salad Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine fresh Romaine, crispy red peppers, creamy boiled eggs, poppable peas, juicy cherry tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and a dreamy homemade dressing all stacked in glorious layers. It’s a classic potluck hero and a family favorite, perfect for gatherings or whenever you want to add a splash of color and flavor to your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple on their own, but together they create an unforgettable combination of textures, colors, and flavors. Each element plays a starring role, from the crunch of fresh veggies to the richness of creamy dressing and smoky bacon, making this 7 Layer Salad Recipe truly special.
- Romaine lettuce: Offers a crisp, refreshing base that holds up beautifully under the other ingredients.
- Red peppers: Add sweetness and bright color, keeping each bite lively and fresh.
- Boiled eggs: Provide creamy texture and protein, sliced into generous quarters for easy layering.
- Frozen peas: Thawed for a slight pop of sweetness and a pleasant burst of green.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved to release juicy goodness and bring a juicy tang.
- English cucumber: Chopped to add cooling crunch without overwhelming the flavors.
- Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the luscious, creamy dressing that ties this salad together.
- Sour cream: Balances the mayo with tanginess and smooth richness.
- Green onions: Finely chopped, they add a subtle, fresh sharpness to the dressing and garnish.
- Honey: Brings a touch of sweetness to harmonize all the flavors.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle kick and complexity to the dressing.
- Garlic: Infuses the dressing with a savory depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient.
- Grated cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top for that melty, tangy goodness.
- Chopped cooked bacon: Provides a smoky crunch that elevates this salad to indulgent heights.
- Additional green onions: Used as a final sprinkle for color contrast and subtle onion bite.
How to Make 7 Layer Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and prepping all your salad components. Chop the Romaine lettuce, red peppers, and cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Slice your hard-boiled eggs into quarters and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thaw frozen peas so they’re ready to layer. Having everything prepped upfront makes the assembly process a breeze.
Step 2: Layer the Base
In a large glass bowl or clear trifle dish, begin building your masterpiece. Start with a generous layer of chopped Romaine lettuce to create a crisp, sturdy foundation that holds all the delicious layers above.
Step 3: Add the Colorful Veggies
Next, layer on the sweet red peppers. Their vibrant red introduces a beautiful pop of color and a juicy crunch that balances the greens perfectly.
Step 4: Incorporate the Protein
Place the sliced boiled eggs carefully over the peppers. Their creamy yolks and firm whites add richness and substance you won’t want to miss in this 7 Layer Salad Recipe.
Step 5: Add Peas and Tomatoes
Sprinkle on the thawed frozen peas for a bright green burst followed by the halved cherry tomatoes. Their juiciness adds moisture and a tangy note to the texture-filled layers.
Step 6: Finish the Veggies
Top this off with the chopped cucumber for a crisp, refreshing finish that also keeps the salad feeling light and fresh.
Step 7: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, finely chopped green onions, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and flavorful. This dressing is the crowning glory that pulls every layer together with creamy, tangy magic.
Step 8: Assemble the Final Layers
Pour the creamy dressing evenly over the salad’s top layer. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese and chopped cooked bacon generously over the dressing. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh green onions to add a final burst of color and flavor.
Step 9: Chill and Serve
Cover your salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least one hour. This resting time lets all the flavors meld beautifully. When ready, you can toss gently to combine or serve as-is, inviting guests to dig through the colorful layers for a delightful taste experience.
How to Serve 7 Layer Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra green onions or a few crispy bacon bits make perfect garnishes that lift both the look and flavor of your 7 Layer Salad Recipe. Feel free to add a pinch of paprika for a little color and subtle warmth on top.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roast beef, or even as a fresh side at a BBQ. Its hearty layers make it satisfying enough to serve alongside simple sandwiches or baked potatoes for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve this salad in individual clear glasses for a fun, portion-controlled presentation? Layer each glass just like the big version for a wow-worthy effect. Alternatively, use a trifle dish to show off those gorgeous, vibrant layers—it’s as stunning as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover 7 Layer Salad Recipe keeps nicely in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen overnight, but the veggies might soften slightly, so enjoy it sooner rather than later for peak freshness.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing because the fresh veggies and creamy dressing can become watery and lose texture once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or kept refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t recommended. It shines brightest chilled and crisp, just as it was originally made.
FAQs
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan-friendly alternatives, leave out the bacon or use plant-based bacon bits, and omit the cheese or pick a vegan cheese option.
What can I use if I don’t have frozen peas?
Fresh peas are a perfect substitute if they’re in season. Otherwise, you can skip peas altogether or try chopped green beans for a similar crunchy texture.
How far in advance can I assemble the 7 Layer Salad Recipe?
It’s best to assemble the salad and refrigerate it at least one hour before serving to let flavors blend, but you can prep the ingredients the night before to save time on the day of your gathering.
Is there a gluten-free version of this salad?
This entire 7 Layer Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for gluten-sensitive eaters. Just be sure to check that all your ingredients, especially bacon and condiments, are labeled gluten-free.
Can I make the dressing ahead?
Yes! The creamy dressing can be made up to two days ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick whisk before pouring it over the salad to refresh its texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this 7 Layer Salad Recipe enough if you want a salad that’s bursting with fresh flavors, textures, and colors. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and always a crowd-pleaser. So grab your freshest ingredients and get layering—you’re going to fall in love with this vibrant, feel-good dish.
Print
7 Layer Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A vibrant and satisfying 7 Layer Salad featuring fresh vegetables, boiled eggs, and a creamy homemade dressing topped with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. Perfect for gatherings and potlucks, this layered salad delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors with a rich, tangy dressing.
Ingredients
Salad Layers
- 1 head Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 red peppers, chopped
- 8 boiled eggs, sliced into quarters
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- 1 English cucumber, chopped
Creamy Salad Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2–3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced or garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped cooked bacon
- A sprinkle of green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the salad layers: In a large glass bowl or trifle dish, begin by layering the chopped Romaine lettuce as the base of your salad.
- Add red peppers: Spread the chopped red peppers evenly over the lettuce to create the second layer.
- Layer the boiled eggs: Arrange the sliced boiled eggs, quartered, as the third layer.
- Include the peas: Evenly distribute the thawed frozen peas over the eggs for the fourth layer.
- Add cherry tomatoes: Place the halved cherry tomatoes gently on top as the fifth layer.
- Top with cucumber: Spread the chopped English cucumber as the sixth layer of the salad.
- Make the creamy dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, finely chopped green onions, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the dressing and add any additional salt or pepper as needed to suit your preference.
- Assemble the salad: Pour the creamy dressing evenly over the top cucumber layer, covering it completely.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese, chopped cooked bacon, and a final sprinkle of green onions on top of the dressing layer.
- Chill: Cover the assembled salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Before serving, gently toss the salad to combine the layers and dressing, or serve it layered, allowing guests to scoop through the distinct layers.
Notes
- For best results, prepare the salad a few hours ahead to let the flavors blend.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter dressing.
- Use fresh bacon for crispiness, or substitute with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- This salad is great for potlucks and can be served as a hearty side or light main dish.
- Ensure eggs are fully cooled before slicing to maintain clean layers.
