Looking for a vibrant salad that impresses at any gathering? This colorful seven layer salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful explosion of flavors. Each layer brings its own unique texture and taste, making it a perfect dish for potlucks, barbecues, or family dinners.
With fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and a crunchy topping, this salad is both refreshing and fulfilling. Easy to assemble, it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something light and satisfying, this seven layer salad has got you covered.
This recipe is versatile; you can easily swap out or add ingredients to suit your taste. Want it vegetarian? You got it! Looking to add some protein? Chickpeas or grilled chicken work wonders.
Visually Appealing Layers
This salad is truly a feast for the eyes. The striking layers of fresh ingredients are arranged in a clear glass bowl, allowing everyone to appreciate the colorful display. Each layer contributes its own vibrant hue, from the crisp green of iceberg lettuce to the bright reds and yellows of cherry tomatoes and bell peppers.
The contrast of colors not only creates an inviting presentation but also hints at the variety of textures and flavors waiting to be enjoyed. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or barbecues, where it can steal the spotlight on any buffet table.
A Symphony of Flavors
The seven layers of this salad each bring their unique flavor profile, working together to create a delightful balance. Crisp iceberg lettuce serves as a refreshing base, while juicy cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. The diced cucumbers offer a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall texture.
Bright bell peppers introduce a mild sweetness and a pop of color, while sweet corn adds a subtle hint of sweetness and a little more crunch. The green onions provide an aromatic touch, and the shredded cheddar cheese adds a creamy richness. Finally, crispy bacon pieces can be added for those who enjoy a savory element to their salads.
The Creamy Dressing
Topping off this colorful creation is a generous layer of creamy dressing. The dressing not only enhances the flavor but also ties all the components together, making each bite a delicious experience. This mix of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a dash of salt and pepper brings a tangy sweetness that complements the fresh vegetables perfectly.
Once spread over the top, the dressing gives the salad an appealing finish, making it even more enticing for your guests. Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours ensures the flavors meld beautifully, creating a taste sensation that everyone will appreciate.
Easy to Prepare and Customize
One of the best aspects of this seven layer salad is its ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can assemble a stunning dish that will impress your friends and family. The layering technique allows for a straightforward assembly, and you can prepare it ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for any gathering.
Moreover, the salad is incredibly versatile. If you’re looking to cater to dietary preferences, feel free to swap out ingredients. Want a meatless version? Omit the bacon or add beans for protein. Have a knack for creativity? Experiment with different veggies or cheese varieties. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this salad pleasing to the eye and the palate, but it also packs a nutritional punch. With a variety of vegetables, this dish provides essential vitamins and minerals. The addition of cheese and bacon introduces protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying option for any meal.
Each serving contains a balance of calories, fats, and carbohydrates, making it a wholesome choice for those looking to enjoy a lighter yet filling dish. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a delicious treat.
Serving Suggestions
This seven layer salad is best served chilled, allowing the ingredients to retain their freshness and crunch. When it’s time for your gathering, simply scoop out portions and serve. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can stand alone as a light meal.
To make it even more festive, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or additional crispy bacon bits for extra flair. No matter how you choose to present it, this salad is sure to be a hit at any occasion!
Delicious and Easy Seven Layer Salad
Each bite of this salad brings together crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, and creamy dressing, with a satisfying layer of cheese and bacon on top. The combination of flavors creates a delightful contrast that is both refreshing and hearty.
Ingredients
- 1 head of iceburg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 cup sweet corn, drained
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Layer the Ingredients: In a large clear bowl, start by layering the chopped lettuce at the bottom, followed by the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, corn, green onions, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon if using.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Top with Dressing: Spread the dressing evenly over the top layer of the salad.
- Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: When ready to serve, scoop out portions and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 15g