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Classic Make-Ahead 7 Layer Salad with Creamy Dressing

A generous slice of 7 layer salad showing distinct layers, topped with bacon, cheese, and hard-boiled eggs.
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Make the ultimate classic 7 layer salad for your next gathering. This recipe features distinct, fresh layers and a simple creamy dressing, making it a reliable and visually appealing potluck staple.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
  • 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup chopped red onion
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup creamy dressing (see notes for simple recipe)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the creamy dressing first and chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
  2. Select a large, clear glass bowl or trifle dish to show off the layers.
  3. Place the shredded lettuce in the bottom layer of the bowl. Press it down lightly.
  4. Add the thawed peas as the second layer directly over the lettuce.
  5. Arrange the chopped celery evenly over the peas.
  6. Add the chopped red onion as the fourth layer.
  7. Place the sliced hard-boiled eggs over the onions.
  8. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the eggs.
  9. Top the bacon with the shredded cheddar cheese.
  10. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the cheese layer.
  11. Pour the chilled creamy dressing evenly over the top layer, covering all ingredients completely. This seals the salad.
  12. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.
  13. When ready to serve, slice down through all layers to portion.

Notes

  • For the simple creamy dressing: Mix 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until smooth and chill thoroughly.
  • Making this salad ahead of time is key. The dressing seals the layers, keeping the lettuce crisp until serving time.
  • If you are taking this to a picnic or potluck, keep the dressing separate and only pour it over the top layer just before serving if you cannot keep it refrigerated until the last minute.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://gourmetgaze.com/7-layer-salad-classic-make-ahead-recipe/