If you’ve ever wanted a salad that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, this 7 Layer Salad Recipe is about to become your new kitchen hero. Layered with crisp iceberg lettuce, vibrant tomatoes, sweet peas, rich hard-boiled eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, and a dreamy creamy dressing, this dish strikes the perfect balance between fresh and indulgent. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that feels like a celebration in your mouth. It’s the perfect side for summer barbecues, potlucks, or any time you want to impress guests with a colorful, crowd-pleasing salad.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large transparent glass bowl filled with light green, torn lettuce leaves that show a crisp texture and fresh look is centered in the image. Behind it are two smaller transparent glass bowls, one filled with bright green peas and the other, partially visible, filled with orange shredded carrots. In the bottom left corner, there is a smaller white bowl filled with crispy, golden-brown bacon bits. All bowls are placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing its own splash of flavor, texture, and color to the salad. From crisp veggies to creamy dressing, every element works in harmony to create this classic favorite.

Iceberg lettuce: Provides a cool, crunchy base that holds all the layers together beautifully.

Diced fresh tomatoes or cherry tomatoes: Adds juicy sweetness and eye-catching red vibrance to the salad.
Frozen peas: Thawed for a pop of vibrant green sweetness.
Hard-boiled eggs: Chopped for richness and a satisfying texture.
Green onions or red onion: Offers a mild sharpness that cuts through the creaminess.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a rich, tangy flavor that everyone loves.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing, adding smoothness.
Sour cream: Gives the dressing a subtle tang that brightens the flavors.
Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the savory elements.

Seasoned salt: Enhances all the flavors with a gentle savory touch.

How to Make 7 Layer Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base Layer

Start by chopping one head of fresh iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces and spreading it evenly across the bottom of your serving dish. This crunchy layer serves as the foundation that keeps all the other delicious layers in place.

Step 2: Add the Tomato Layer

Next, evenly distribute two cups of diced fresh tomatoes or halved cherry tomatoes over the lettuce. The juicy tomatoes add a burst of freshness and a pop of red color that makes the salad visually inviting.

Step 3: Layer the Peas

Scatter two cups of thawed frozen peas on top of the tomatoes. These sweet green peas introduce a subtle crispness that contrasts nicely with the softer layers.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Chop eight hard-boiled eggs and sprinkle them evenly over the peas. The eggs add a lovely creamy texture and protein to make this salad more filling and satisfying.

Step 5: Sprinkle the Onions

For a touch of sharpness, add half a cup of thinly sliced green onions or diced red onion. This layer cuts through the richness and adds a nice bite with every forkful.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Layer

Next, sprinkle two packed cups of shredded cheddar cheese across the onions. The cheddar provides a savory depth of flavor that makes the salad irresistibly tasty.

Step 7: Prepare and Spread the Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix together one cup of mayonnaise, three-quarters cup of sour cream, two tablespoons of granulated sugar, and one teaspoon of seasoned salt. Whisk this dressing until smooth and creamy. Spread it gently over the entire salad to seal in the layers and add luscious creaminess.

How to Serve 7 Layer Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Feel free to top your 7 Layer Salad Recipe with fresh chives or a few sprigs of parsley for an extra burst of green and freshness. A sprinkle of paprika can add a lovely color contrast and a hint of smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like barbecue chicken or ribs, as well as lighter fare such as baked fish or roasted vegetables. Its rich and creamy layers balance out smoky or spicy flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try building your 7 Layer Salad Recipe in individual clear cups or mason jars to showcase each colorful layer. You can also arrange it in a trifle bowl, allowing everyone to admire the vibrant beauty before serving. Presentation truly elevates this crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days to keep the lettuce crisp and the flavors fresh, but you might notice the texture softens slightly with time.

Freezing

Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the lettuce, tomatoes, and peas will lose their texture and become soggy once thawed. For best results, prepare and enjoy fresh!

Reheating

This salad is intended to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary and might cause the delicate layers to break down. Simply give it a gentle stir before serving if it sits for a while.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of lettuce in this salad?

While iceberg lettuce is traditional for its crunch and mild flavor, you can substitute romaine or butter lettuce for a slightly different texture and taste, but keep in mind they might be less crisp.

Is there a way to make this salad vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Swap out the cheddar cheese for a plant-based alternative, and use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream. You can also omit eggs or replace them with cubed tofu for extra protein.

How far in advance can I prepare this salad?

You can assemble the salad a day ahead to let the flavors meld, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

What can I substitute for seasoned salt in the dressing?

If you don’t have seasoned salt on hand, a pinch of regular salt mixed with a bit of garlic powder and paprika works well as a simple homemade substitute.

Final Thoughts

Your next get-together or family meal deserves the vibrant charm and delicious layers of the 7 Layer Salad Recipe. It’s a nostalgic classic that never goes out of style, guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for this colorful, creamy salad again and again.