Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This classic seven-layer salad is the ultimate combination of crunchy, creamy, and savory. The layers of iceberg lettuce, red onion, peas, Cheddar cheese, cauliflower, and a flavorful dressing are not only visually striking but also bursting with flavor. Topped with a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing and Parmesan cheese, this salad is sure to be the star of your next gathering. It’s easy to make, requires minimal cooking, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal dish for entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 large head iceberg lettuce, rinsed, dried, and chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen green peas, thawed
- 10 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped cauliflower
For the dressing:
- 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
- ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
Directions
- Assemble the salad: In a large glass dish or bowl, layer the chopped lettuce, red onion, peas, shredded cheese, and chopped cauliflower.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and sugar in a bowl until smooth.
- Top the salad: Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad until chilled, about 1 hour.
- Serve: Once chilled, serve and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if any cooking is required for alternative ingredients)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add Extra Vegetables: You can include additional vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers to add more color and crunch.
- Different Cheeses: Substitute the Cheddar cheese with a different type like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a sharp blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Substitute the Crunch: For a different texture and flavor, consider adding toasted seeds, nuts, or crispy chickpeas.
- Dressing Variations: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing for a tangy twist, or replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for maximum freshness, as the lettuce may lose its crispness over time.
- Reheating: There is no need to reheat this salad, as it’s served chilled. Simply pull it from the fridge and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Seven Layer Salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to keep it chilled and only add the dressing right before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing?
Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or sour cream for a tangier dressing.
What other ingredients can I add to this salad?
Feel free to add extra vegetables like shredded carrots, chopped tomatoes, or bell peppers. You could also include hard-boiled eggs or olives for extra flavor.
Is it okay to use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas are perfect for this salad. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the layers.
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
While iceberg lettuce is traditional, you can substitute with romaine lettuce, spinach, or even a mix of greens for a different texture.
How do I keep the salad fresh if I make it in advance?
Cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent the lettuce from wilting or the dressing from soaking in.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Swiss cheese, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack are great alternatives to Cheddar.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
Simply substitute any non-vegetarian ingredient with crispy chickpeas, sunflower seeds, or toasted nuts for a crunchy alternative.
How do I make the dressing creamier?
To make the dressing creamier, add a little extra mayonnaise or sour cream until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I freeze Seven Layer Salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the ingredients, especially the lettuce, won’t retain their texture once thawed. This salad is best served fresh or within a couple of days of preparation.
Conclusion
Seven Layer Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion, offering a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. Its vibrant layers of fresh vegetables, cheese, and creamy dressing create a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Whether you’re preparing it for a potluck or a weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to impress and become a favorite among family and friends!
Seven Layer Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Layering, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Seven Layer Salad is a timeless crowd-pleaser with vibrant colors and textures, featuring a mix of crunchy vegetables, creamy cheese, and a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 large head iceberg lettuce, rinsed, dried, and chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen green peas, thawed
- 10 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped cauliflower
- 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
- ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
Instructions
- In a large glass dish or bowl, layer the chopped lettuce, red onion, peas, shredded cheese, and chopped cauliflower.
- Whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and sugar in a bowl until smooth.
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
- Refrigerate the salad until chilled, about 1 hour.
- Once chilled, serve and enjoy!
Notes
- This salad can be made a day or two in advance, but add the dressing right before serving.
- Feel free to substitute Cheddar cheese with other varieties like Swiss or Monterey Jack.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for the best freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
