7 Layer Salad

7 Layer Salad is a colorful, hearty dish that brings together fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and a satisfying crunch in one bowl. People love it because it’s simple to assemble, visually inviting, and perfect for everyday family meals or casual gatherings. It’s a comfort food that works equally well for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy evenings at home. I often toss it together after work, knowing it will keep well for leftovers and still taste fresh the next day. With crisp lettuce, sweet peas, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy dressing topping, every bite is a mix of flavors and textures that feels homey and satisfying.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This 7 Layer Salad is a cozy, weeknight-friendly dish that’s as practical as it is tasty. Each layer adds flavor and texture without any complicated steps, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute meals. It’s flexible—you can swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or pantry, so it’s budget-conscious too. Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge, making it a crowd-pleasing option for lunch the next day. The creamy topping balances fresh vegetables, while crunchy elements add a satisfying bite. This recipe is designed for home cooks who want something approachable yet special, and it’s the kind of salad friends and family always ask you to bring back. Save this pin to your board—you’ll want to make it again and again for both casual dinners and casual entertaining.

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Ingredients

Tip: Use crisp, fresh romaine or iceberg for the best base layer.

  • 6 cups chopped lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Wash and chop all fresh vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the lettuce, and crumble the bacon. Let frozen peas thaw fully. Measure and set aside cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
If bacon is raw, cook until crisp. Drain and set aside. Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. This will be your creamy topping for the salad.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Layer ingredients in a clear glass dish for a pretty presentation: start with lettuce, then peas, tomatoes, onion, bacon, cheese, and finally the creamy mixture. Press gently to hold layers together.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Smooth the creamy topping evenly across the top and sprinkle extra cheese or bacon if desired. Chill for at least one hour before serving to let flavors meld and textures set.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

7 Layer Salad is ideal for busy cooks because it’s mostly assembly, no long cooking times, and ingredients can be prepped in advance. You can chop veggies and cook bacon ahead, then layer the salad when you’re ready. It stores well in the fridge, so leftovers are easy to enjoy for lunch or dinner the next day. Pinterest users can save this for a quick weeknight or prep it in bulk for a cozy family meal.

Tips & Tricks

  • Keep lettuce crisp: Wash and dry thoroughly. Excess water can make layers soggy quickly, so use a salad spinner and pat dry before layering.
  • Prevent watery topping: Mix sour cream and mayonnaise well and chill slightly. Adding it directly at room temperature can make the top runny over time.
  • Layering order matters: Place heavier ingredients like peas and cheese closer to the bottom to prevent lighter veggies from sinking and keep the salad visually appealing.
  • Make ahead carefully: Assemble the salad but hold off on topping for more than a few hours. Add creamy dressing last to maintain crisp textures throughout.

Variations

  • Meaty version: Add grilled chicken or turkey slices in addition to bacon. Layer between the veggies for added protein and make it a full meal. Perfect for family dinners that need a heartier salad.
  • Vegetarian option: Skip bacon and use roasted chickpeas or smoked tofu for crunch. The salad still feels layered and satisfying without meat.
  • Ingredient swap: Swap cheddar cheese for feta or mozzarella for a milder flavor. You can also replace peas with edamame or corn for seasonal variation.
  • Flavor boost: Mix fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the creamy topping. A touch of smoked paprika or garlic powder adds depth without complicating prep.

Serving Suggestions

  • Casual lunch: Serve with warm bread rolls and a simple protein like grilled chicken for a balanced midday meal.
  • Family dinner: Pair with roasted potatoes or simple pasta for a colorful side that everyone can grab from the table.
  • Potluck-friendly: Present in a clear glass dish for visual appeal. Guests love seeing the colorful layers before digging in.
  • Light side dish: Use as a side for grilled meats or fish. The freshness and creamy topping complement richer mains beautifully.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge storage: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Keeps for up to 3 days; lettuce may soften slightly, so assemble closer to serving if possible.
  • Reheating: This salad is best cold. If leftovers are warmed, remove creamy topping and add fresh dressing before serving.
  • Freezing: Not recommended due to fresh vegetables and creamy layers, which don’t freeze well.
  • Make-ahead tips: Chop all vegetables and cook bacon in advance. Assemble just before serving for freshest texture and visual appeal.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes (for bacon)
  • Rest Time: 60 minutes (chill before serving)
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

Calories: 250–300 per serving
Protein: 8–12g per serving
Key Nutrients: Vitamin A, Vitamin C from lettuce and tomatoes, calcium from cheese
Values are estimates and will vary depending on ingredient brands and portions used.

FAQs

Yes, prep veggies and bacon separately and layer just before serving for best freshness.

Ensure mayo and sour cream are chilled and mixed well before spreading.

Yes, swap cheese, peas, or bacon with your preferred alternatives.

Dry lettuce and thaw peas completely to prevent excess moisture.

Store in the fridge up to 3 days; salad is best served cold.

Conclusion

7 Layer Salad is a cozy, colorful dish that’s easy to assemble and brings fresh flavors to any table. It’s flexible—you can swap ingredients, add proteins, or boost flavor with herbs, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a casual family meal, or a potluck favorite, it’s satisfying, simple, and visually inviting. I love making it when I want something fresh and comforting without fuss. Save this pin, try your own variations, and enjoy a layered salad that feels homemade and welcoming every time.

7 Layer Salad
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7 Layer Salad

Recipe by Edan SalamonCourse: Salad Recipes
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

A colorful, crunchy, and creamy salad with seven delicious layers. Easy to assemble, perfect for family meals, and great for leftovers.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups chopped lettuce

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed

  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion

  • 1 cup mayonnaise

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • Wash and chop all vegetables. Halve tomatoes and crumble bacon. Thaw peas.
  • Cook bacon if raw. Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  • Layer in dish: lettuce, peas, tomatoes, onion, bacon, cheese, creamy topping. Press gently.
  • Smooth top, sprinkle extra cheese/bacon if desired. Chill at least 1 hour before serving.

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