Seven Layer Salad

Seven Layer Salad isn’t anything new. It’s been popular (thanks to Betty Crocker) for decades now, but luckily the very best things never really go out of style. If you don’t remember it – or have never had it – Seven Layer Salad is an easy make-ahead salad that’s layered and chilled so all of the ingredients stay crisp and fresh. With iceberg or romaine lettuce, bacon, green onion, tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, peas, cheddar, and a creamy dressing whose taste defies its simplicity, it’s quite possibly the perfect potluck salad.

In its heyday, this salad was generally made with iceberg lettuce, but we find that romaine still packs the same satisfying crunch but with a more desirable nutritional profile. After that first layer of lettuce is down, you add green peas, fresh tomatoes, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and chopped green onions each in their own layer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Seven Layer Salad is a classic for a reason. It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors, from the crunchy lettuce to the savory bacon and creamy dressing. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for potlucks and family gatherings.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• A trifle bowl or large clear glass bowl
• A medium mixing bowl
• Knife for chopping ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap

Ingredients

• 5 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 (12 oz) package frozen peas, thawed
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• 3/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a trifle bowl or large clear glass bowl, layer the lettuce along the bottom.
2. Add the tomatoes, peas, eggs, and green onions in individual layers over the lettuce.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and salt and pepper.
4. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the top of the salad.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese and then crumbled bacon over the top of the sour cream dressing.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
7. Serve, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make sure to thoroughly dry the lettuce before layering to prevent sogginess.
• For a deeper flavor, consider using smoked bacon.
• Layer your salad in a clear bowl for a beautiful presentation.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Consider adding sliced cucumbers or red bell peppers for extra crunch. For a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact values may vary, each serving of Seven Layer Salad is rich in protein from the eggs and bacon and provides a good amount of fiber from the vegetables. The use of romaine lettuce increases the vitamin and mineral content compared to traditional iceberg lettuce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just make sure it is well covered and stored in the refrigerator.

What can I use instead of bacon?
You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a vegetarian option.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used. Blanch them quickly in boiling water to maintain their color and crunch.

Conclusion

Give this timeless Seven Layer Salad a try at your next gathering, and watch it become a crowd favorite. Its vibrant layers and delightful flavors are sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added to make this dish your own!