7 Layer Salad Recipe Makes A Fresh Classic Side To Your Meal!

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This image shows a bowl full of vibrant vegetables, including red onion, lettuce, peas, cauliflower, and more, arranged together to create an easy seven-layer salad, perfect as a flavorful side for hearty meals or parties.

Salads

Layered with vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors, this easy-layer salad is a showstopper at any gathering. It’s the perfect combination of convenience and appeal, with crisp lettuce, sweet peas, tangy dressing, and a medley of toppings that deliver a harmonious crunch in every bite.

What makes this recipe truly special? It’s as effortless to prepare as it is stunning to serve, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or potluck parties. I first came across this dish at a summer picnic, where it stole the spotlight among a sea of casseroles and dips.

The bright layers practically begged to be scooped, and the creamy dressing tied everything together with a touch of indulgence. This version streamlines the process while preserving the classic charm—no fancy tools or techniques are required.

One of the best parts? This salad fits right into a healthier lifestyle. Packed with fresh veggies and a customizable dressing, it’s a nutrient-rich option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. A study revealed that eating colorful vegetables boosts antioxidant intake, so this dish is as nourishing as it is beautiful.

Let’s make salad exciting again!

Flavor Bomb Alert!

  • Effortless assembly: Even on a hectic day, this salad comes together in under 20 minutes.
  • Crowd-pleasing flavors: The balance of savory, sweet, and creamy hits all the right notes.
  • Customizable layers: Mix and match ingredients to suit your preferences or what’s in your fridge.
  • Meal-prep friendly: Make it ahead, and it tastes even better after chilling.
  • Nutrient-packed: A delicious way to sneak in those daily veggies without feeling like it’s “health food.”
This image shows a bowl full of vibrant vegetables, including red onion, lettuce, peas, cauliflower, and more, arranged together to create an easy seven-layer salad, perfect as a flavorful side for hearty meals or parties.

7 Layer Salad Recipe

This easy 7-layer salad combines fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing in a colorful and flavorful dish. Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, it’s a versatile recipe that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 12 people
Calories 387 kcal

Equipment

  • Whisk
  • Paper towels
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Large skillet
  • Large glass dish or bowl

Ingredients
  

Dressing

  • cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp white sugar

Salad

  • 1 large head iceberg lettuce – rinsed, dried, and chopped
  • 1 cup chopped cauliflower
  • 1 package frozen green peas, thawed
  • 10 oz shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1 red onion, chopped
  • 1 lb bacon

Instructions
 

  • Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat, flipping occasionally, until crispy, about 10 minutes.
    This image shows crispy strips of bacon being cooked in a frying pan until golden brown, forming the savory base for the salad.
  • Transfer to paper towels to drain, crumble, and set aside.
    This image shows cooked bacon being drained on a paper towel and crumbled into small, bite-sized pieces for adding to the salad layers.
  • Arrange chopped lettuce at the bottom of a large glass dish or bowl.
    This image shows a fresh layer of crisp, green lettuce being evenly arranged in the base of a glass bowl, preparing the first layer of the layered salad.
  • Add a layer of finely sliced red onion over the lettuce.
    This image shows thinly sliced red onion rings being spread over the lettuce layer, adding a pop of vibrant purple color to the salad.
  • Spread peas evenly across the onion layer.
    This image shows bright green peas being scattered evenly on top of the red onion layer, creating a colorful and sweet addition to the salad.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheese over the peas to form the next layer.
    This image shows shredded cheese being sprinkled generously over the peas layer, adding a creamy and rich element to the layered salad.
  • Distribute chopped cauliflower over the cheese layer.
    This image shows a creamy dressing being mixed in a bowl with a whisk, combining ingredients to form the perfect topping for the layered salad.
  • Scatter the crumbled bacon on top of the cauliflower.
    This image shows crispy, crumbled bacon pieces being evenly scattered over the cauliflower layer, adding a smoky and savory flavor to the salad.
  • In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and sugar until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
    This image shows the creamy dressing being poured over the layered salad in the bowl, evenly coating the top layer for a rich and delicious finish.
  • Pour the dressing evenly over the layered salad, cover, and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
    pouring-creamy-dressing-over-the-layered-salad

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor in the dressing.
  • Ensure the salad is well-chilled before serving for optimal taste and texture.
NutritionValue
Calories387kcal
Carbohydrates10g
Fibre2g
Fat33g
Protein15g
Cholesterol51g

Variations That Will Help You Customise Your Dish!

  1. Protein Swap: Replace bacon with grilled chicken, turkey, or crumbled tofu for a different protein option.
  2. Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheeses like feta, cheddar, or mozzarella to suit your taste.
  3. Dressing Twist: Swap the mayonnaise dressing for ranch, yogurt-based dressings, or vinaigrettes for a lighter flavor.
  4. Extra Veggies: Add layers of diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.
  5. Herb Boost: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro between layers or on top for added freshness.

Tags:

easy recipes / healthy recipes / quick recipes / salad

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