I took some inspiration from her layered salad recipes, but also kept it close enough to a traditional 7 layer salad that Americans are used to. This classic is so easy to make ahead and bring out the moment company comes over! The creamy, savory taste in this dish comes from a quick dressing of mayonnaise and sour cream, reminiscent of a pasta salad or cauliflower broccoli salad, but with more layers. It compliments the crispness of the veggies so well!
7 Layer Salad Ingredients
Here I explain the best ingredients for traditional 7 layer salad, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Salad:
Greens – I used shredded romaine lettuce, but you could use other greens such as spinach, iceberg lettuce, or even shredded cabbage. Grape Tomatoes – You could substitute with cherry tomatoes, diced larger tomatoes, or even swap half of the fresh ones with oven dried tomatoes. Bell Peppers – I used orange and yellow bell peppers for a rainbow effect, but you could use any combination of green, yellow, orange, or red bell peppers. You could use other veggies such as black olives, celery, or thawed frozen peas as well. Hard Boiled Eggs – Prepare the eggs ahead of time. You can use my easy peel boiled eggs method or even hard boil eggs in the oven. Red Onion – If you want a more mild sweet flavor, use white onions instead, or use green onions for more bite. Cheese – I used shredded sharp cheddar cheese, but you could use any cheese you prefer. Try crumbled feta, grated parmesan cheese, mozzarella, or even blue cheese crumbles! Bacon Crumbles – I highly recommend cooking bacon in the oven, which lets you make a big batch quickly. You can also make bacon in the air fryer or microwave. If you want a healthier bacon alternative, try air fryer turkey bacon. Chop or crumble it after cooling. For a time-saving shortcut, use store-bought bacon bits.
Dressing:
Mayonnaise – Adds a creamy, tangy flavor and creamy texture. I make my own avocado oil mayo when I have time, but you can get a store-bought version (this one is my fave) or even use Greek yogurt. Sour Cream – Enhances the tangy flavor in the 7 layer salad dressing. You can use Greek yogurt here as well.
How To Make 7 Layer Salad
This section shows how to make a seven layer salad, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card. Add meats such as sliced ham, turkey, or chicken to transform this 7 layer salad into a complete meal. Traditional seven layer salad recipes just use a combination of mayo and sour cream, but you can use a salad dressing if you like. Try ranch, blue cheese, or even green goddess dressing. You may need to reduce the liquids to keep them thick enough — you don’t want the dressing to drip down to the lettuce and softer vegetables.
Storage Instructions
Make-ahead seven layer salad can store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover in plastic wrap before storing. Like virtually all salad recipes, do not freeze this one. Similar to my mason jar salads, you want the dressing away from the lettuce, which won’t hold up as well, and next to ingredients that won’t get soggy. Follow the order above to prevent a soggy salad. It can be a little hard to spread the mayo dressing over the onions without sticking. Just dollop a little at a time and spread a little, add a little more, and repeat.
What To Serve With Seven Layer Salad
Serve this salad alongside your main meal, or with other potluck-style recipes. Here are a few ideas:
Potluck Mains – If you’re taking this 7 layer salad to a potluck or family get together, it pairs beautifully with other potluck mains like my best burger recipe, tender slow cooker pulled pork, or meaty, easy chili. Grilled Mains – This summery salad makes the perfect accompaniment to grilled foods. Try juicy grilled chicken kabobs or quick grilled shrimp skewers. For a fancier meal, try grilled steak, Cajun seasoned grilled cod, or perfect grilled salmon. Chicken – Always goes with salad! Try zesty baked lemon pepper wings, tender bacon wrapped chicken breasts, or crispy air fryer chicken legs. Steaks – Make a juicy grilled steak, or if the weather isn’t good for grilling, an air fryer steak instead.
More Overnight Salad Recipes
Here are more of my favorite flavorful salads you can make ahead of time and store overnight. Great for cookouts and potlucks! Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. 📖 Want more recipes like this? Find this one and many more in my Low Carb Holiday Cookbook and Keto Ebook Bundle!
