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Classic 7 Layer Salad Recipe

A tall, layered salad featuring visible layers of lettuce, peas, creamy dressing, topped with shredded cheese, hard-boiled eggs, and bacon bits for the perfect 7 layer salad.
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Make this classic 7 layer salad, a timeless, easy make-ahead side dish perfect for potlucks, holidays, and BBQs. It features crisp layers of fresh vegetables, bacon, cheese, and a creamy dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
  • 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced or chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the layers: In a large, clear glass bowl (like a trifle dish), begin assembling the layers in this order: half of the shredded lettuce, all of the thawed peas, half of the sliced eggs, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, half of the celery, and half of the red onion.
  3. Spread half of the prepared dressing evenly over the layers.
  4. Repeat the layering process with the remaining lettuce, eggs, cheese, bacon, celery, and onion.
  5. Spread the remaining dressing evenly over the top layer.
  6. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, sprinkle any remaining bacon or cheese on top, if desired. Slice and serve directly from the bowl.

Notes

  • You can assemble this layered salad up to 24 hours ahead of time. Keep it covered in the refrigerator.
  • For best results when making ahead, do not add the bacon until just before serving, as it can soften.
  • If you want a sweeter dressing, increase the sugar slightly in the dressing mixture.
  • This recipe is a great potluck favorite because it travels well when kept chilled.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/7-layer-salad-recipe-classic-potluck-side/