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Classic Seven-Layer Salad Recipe

classic seven-layer salad recipe - featured image

A nostalgic, cozy seven-layer salad perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, featuring fresh veggies, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a creamy tangy dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients (10 minutes): Wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly. Shred iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, finely chop red onion. Crumble cooked bacon into small pieces. Grate cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
  2. Make the Dressing (5 minutes): In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, white vinegar, and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. Layer the Salad (5 minutes): In a clear glass bowl, start with shredded lettuce as the base. Add a layer of halved cherry tomatoes, then diced cucumber. Sprinkle crumbled bacon evenly over veggies. Add finely chopped red onion, then shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  4. Add the Dressing Layer (2 minutes): Spread the creamy dressing evenly over the top cheese layer, covering completely without mixing.
  5. Chill Before Serving (at least 1 hour): Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and dressing to soften layers.

Notes

Keep ingredients dry to avoid sogginess. Layer thoughtfully to maintain texture and flavor balance. Chill salad for at least one hour before serving. Dressing can be substituted with Greek yogurt or avocado mayo for lighter or dairy-free options. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: seven-layer salad, classic salad, potluck salad, layered salad, bacon salad, easy salad recipe, creamy dressing, comfort food salad