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Classic Make-Ahead Seven Layer Salad

A tall, rectangular block of amazing seven layer salad showing distinct layers of toppings, eggs, and vegetables.
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Assemble this traditional seven layer salad in a glass bowl for a visually appealing and easy side dish perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. This recipe includes steps to keep it crisp when made ahead.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced or chopped
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional topping)

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: Ensure all ingredients are ready: chop the lettuce, thaw the peas, slice the eggs, crumble the bacon, and shred the cheddar cheese.
  3. Assemble the salad in a large glass trifle bowl or deep serving dish to show the layers. The order is important for texture and preventing sogginess.
  4. Layer 1: Place the chopped iceberg lettuce at the bottom.
  5. Layer 2: Spread the thawed green peas evenly over the lettuce.
  6. Layer 3: Arrange the sliced hard-boiled eggs over the peas.
  7. Layer 4: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the eggs.
  8. Layer 5: Distribute the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bacon layer.
  9. Layer 6: Sprinkle the thinly sliced red onion over the cheese.
  10. Layer 7: Carefully spread the prepared creamy dressing over the onion layer, sealing the ingredients below.
  11. Chill: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
  12. Garnish before serving: Just before serving, sprinkle the top layer with the shredded Parmesan cheese and the optional chopped nuts.

Notes

  • To keep this make-ahead salad crisp, do not add the dressing until you are ready to chill it, and make sure the dressing completely covers the top layer to seal out air.
  • If you are preparing this for a potluck, keep the salad refrigerated until you leave, and bring the topping ingredients (Parmesan and nuts) separately to add just before serving.
  • You can substitute the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or a Colby blend for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/seven-layer-salad-recipe-classic-make-ahead/