Have you ever craved a salad that’s not just fresh and healthy but also packed with layers of flavor? Let us introduce you to the 7 Layer Salad, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want a quick and easy meal, this traditional recipe is sure to impress.

A 7 layer salad in a glass bowl on a table.

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Why You Will Love Making 7 Layer Salad

One of the things we adore about the seven layer salad is how incredibly fresh it tastes. Every bite offers a burst of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy shallots. And let’s not forget the delicious dressing that ties all the flavors together. It’s like a symphony of textures and tastes in your mouth!
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a potluck with friends, family gatherings, or just prepping your weekly meals, this salad fits right in. It’s visually appealing with its vibrant layers, making it a centerpiece dish that’s sure to grab attention. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be paired with various other dishes, making it a staple in our kitchen.
We’re always on the lookout for recipes that are not only delicious but also nutritious. With ingredients like fresh lettuce, green peas, red onions, and hard-boiled eggs, this salad is packed with essential nutrients. And the best part? You can always customize it by adding other vegetables you love or swapping out ingredients based on your preferences.
We know how busy life can get, and that’s why we love recipes that are straightforward and hassle-free. This 7 layer salad recipe is just that! With a few simple steps, you can have a bowl of this great salad ready in no time. Plus, the clear large glass bowl presentation makes it look like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen when it’s only taken you minutes.
While many traditional seven layer salad recipes might include meat or crispy bacon, our version keeps it 100% vegetarian without compromising on flavor. The combination of ingredients ensures that you’re not missing out on any taste or texture. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.

How to Make a 7 Layer Salad with Step-by-Step Instructions

A complete printable recipe and the measurements in both US customary and metric are available in the recipe card below.

Preparing the Crispy Shallots

Start with the shallots, as they’ll add that delightful crunch to your salad. Place them in a large skillet with enough oil to just cover them. Cook on medium-high heat, occasionally giving them a stir.

A skillet with shallots frying in it. — Cook the shallots on medium-high heat until they turn deep golden brown.

A plate with a crispy shallots on a paper towel. — Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Once they start turning a golden hue, keep a close eye on them. You’ll want them deep golden brown but not burnt. After they’ve achieved that perfect color, transfer them to a plate with a kitchen towel to drain off any excess oil.

A sprinkle of salt on top, and you’re good to go!

Crafting the Creamy Dressing

For the dressing, grab a small mixing bowl. Mix mayonnaise, vegetarian Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.

Ingredients for a mayo dressing on a marble table. — Add mayonnaise, Parmesan, garlic, and a pinch of salt to a small bowl.

A bowl of cheesy mayonnaise dressing, onions, and other ingredients. — Mix to combine.

Give it a good mix until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of the salad, binding all the layers together with its rich flavor.

Layering the Salad

Now comes the fun part! The first step is to take your clear glass bowl and start with a layer of chopped lettuce. This forms the base of your salad.

A glass bowl filled with a layer of lettuce. — Add a layer of chopped lettuce to a glass bowl.

A glass bowl with a lettuce, onion, and tomatoes in it. — Then, add a layer of red onion and a layer of chopped tomatoes.

A glass bowl with a salad in it. — Next, add peas and then a layer of chopped boiled egg.

Next, sprinkle a generous amount of diced red onion on top of the lettuce, followed by those juicy tomatoes (cherry tomatoes are great!). The frozen peas come next (make sure they’re thawed!), followed by the diced English cucumber and the cubed hard boiled eggs.

Each layer adds its own unique texture and flavor, making every bite exciting.

Dressing and Topping

Once all your layers are in place, it’s time to drizzle that yummy tangy dressing you prepared earlier. Make sure it’s spread evenly so every serving gets a good amount of it.

A person is pouring a spoonful of dressing onto a bowl of salad. — Drizzle the dressing over the top and scatter *shredded* sharp cheddar cheese.

A glass bowl with a salad in it and a crispy shallot topping. — Finally, scatter the crispy shallots as the top layer.

Finally, scatter the shredded cheddar cheese on top and finish off with the crispy shallots you prepared. They add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the dreamy dressing.

Presentation Tips

Using a clear glass bowl or a trifle dish is key to showcasing those beautiful layers. It’s not just about the taste; the visual appeal of this salad is half the fun!

When serving, make sure to dig deep to get a bit of every layer, ensuring a perfect bite every time.

A glass bowl with a seven-layer salad in it.

Recipe Notes and Expert Tips

Choosing the Right Bowl: The beauty of the seven layered salad lies in its presentation. Using a clear glass bowl or trifle bowl allows you to showcase each layer, making it a visual treat. If you’re taking this salad to a potluck or gathering, it’s sure to be the talk of the table!
Customizing Your Layers: While we’ve given you our favorite combination of ingredients, the beauty of this salad is its versatility. Feel free to swap out or add ingredients based on your preferences. Love red bell peppers, chopped celery, or cauliflower florets? Toss them in! Not a fan of peas? Leave them out or replace them with another veggie. A sprinkle of fresh green onions or fresh dill to finish is always a delight! Remember, it’s all about creating a salad that you and your loved ones will enjoy.
Dressing Consistency: The creamy homemade dressing is a star in this recipe. If you find it too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of milk. On the other hand, if you prefer a tangier taste, consider adding a splash of white vinegar or lemon juice or swapping some of the mayo for Greek yogurt. And for those who love a hint of sweetness, a teaspoon of white sugar can do wonders.
Iceberg Lettuce: While we’ve used iceberg lettuce in our recipe, feel free to use romaine lettuce, baby spinach, or any other crispy head lettuce you prefer. Just make sure it’s fresh and crisp.
Other Peas: Fresh sweet peas or canned peas can be a delightful addition. For fresh, if they’re very young and tender, you can use them raw. Otherwise, blanch them briefly to soften them up a bit. For canned, drain them well before using them.
Mayonnaise: Alternatives: Greek yogurt or sour cream can be excellent substitutes for mayonnaise. You can also try using a mix of half mayo and half sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even Miracle Whip to maintain some of the original taste.
Add Protein: While our recipe is vegetarian, you can definitely add protein sources like chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh. Just ensure they’re cooked and seasoned well before adding them as a layer. If you happen to have any leftover vegan ham, try adding a layer of diced ham to the salad!
Make it Vegan: To make this salad vegan, you can skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. For the salad dressing, use vegan mayo or a mix of vegan sour cream or yogurt with vegan mayonnaise.
Shredded Cheese Choices: We’ve used sharp cheddar in our recipe, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Mild cheddar, Parmesan, or a mix of your favorite cheeses can be used.
Overnight Salad: One of the great things about the 7 layer salad is that it can be prepared ahead of time. If you’re making it the night before, just cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. However, we’d recommend adding the crispy shallots just before serving to retain their crunch and also adding the dressing when you’re about to eat if you’re making the salad well in advance.

A glass bowl filled with a 7-layer salad.

How to Store Leftover 7 Layer Salad

Sometimes you find yourself with leftovers, here are the best ways to store leftover 7 layer salad.

Keeping it Fresh

If you find yourself with leftover seven layer salad, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness.

Place the salad in an airtight container or cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap. This will prevent any air from getting in and keep the ingredients crisp.

Refrigeration is Key

Always store your leftover 7 layer salad in the refrigerator. The dressing and ingredients, like hard-boiled eggs and cheese, need to be kept cold to stay fresh.

Ideally, try to consume the leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture. After this period, the salad layers might start to meld together, and the salad could become a bit soggy.

Reviving the Crunch

If you’ve added crispy shallots or any other crunchy toppings to your salad, they might lose their crunch after being refrigerated.

Before serving the leftovers, consider making a fresh batch of crispy shallots or your chosen crunchy topping to sprinkle on top.

It’ll bring back that delightful contrast of textures that makes this salad so special.

A glass bowl filled with a 7-layer salad with peas and carrots.

What to Serve with This Seven Layer Salad Recipe

There’s nothing better than pairing this delicious salad centerpiece with tasty food.

Hearty Breads

There’s something incredibly satisfying about pairing a fresh salad with a slice of hearty bread. Whether it’s a crusty French Bread, garlic toast, or even a delicious flatbread, it complements the creamy texture of the salad beautifully.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even whip up some homemade garlic bread using fresh garlic, butter, and a sprinkle of parsley. It’s a match made in heaven!

Light Soups

If you’re looking to make a complete meal out of it, a light soup can be a wonderful pairing with the 7 layer salad.

Think along the lines of a Butternut Squash Soup, Vegan Thai Coconut Curry Soup, or a spicy tomato soup. The warmth of the soup contrasts beautifully with the cool, creamy layers of the salad, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Pasta Dishes

For those days when you’re looking for something more substantial, consider serving the seven layer salad alongside a light pasta dish.

A simple Aglio e Olio, Pasta Alla Sorrentina, Cacio e Pepe, or a Lemon Spaghetti can be great choices.

The key is to keep the pasta flavors light and fresh so they don’t overpower the salad but complement it instead.

A plate with a salad and a bowl of crispy shallots.

More Salad Recipes For You To Try

A glass bowl with a 7 layer salad in it.

Print Pin Recipe

4.86 from 7 votes

The Best Homemade 7 Layer Salad Recipe

This 7 Layer Salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or just want a quick and easy, healthy meal.

Prep Time15

Cook Time10

Total Time25

Servings

Calories299

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1 pound shallots thinly sliced
Pinch of salt

For the dressing:

1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
⅔ cup vegetarian Parmesan cheese grated
½ clove garlic minced
¾ teaspoon salt

For the salad:

1 large head of lettuce rinsed, dried, and chopped
⅔ cup red onion diced
1 ½ cups tomatoes chopped into chunks
10 ounces frozen peas thawed
½ English cucumber diced
6 eggs hard-boiled and cubed
1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese shredded

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

Place the shallots in a skillet and add oil until they are just about covered. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally until they begin to turn golden brown, approximately 6 – 7 minutes. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until they are a deep golden brown.
1 pound shallots
Transfer them to a plate lined with a kitchen towel and sprinkle with salt. ,and set aside.
Pinch of salt

For the dressing:

In a small mixing bowl, mix together mayonnaise, vegetarian Parmesan cheese, garlic, and salt, then set aside.
1 ¼ cups mayonnaise, ⅔ cup vegetarian Parmesan cheese, ½ clove garlic, ¾ teaspoon salt

For the salad:

Place the lettuce in an even layer over the bottom of your glass bowl. Then add a layer of red onion, followed by tomatoes. Next, add peas, then cucumber, and eggs.
1 large head of lettuce, ⅔ cup red onion, 1 ½ cups tomatoes, 10 ounces frozen peas, ½ English cucumber, 6 eggs
Drizzle the dressing evenly over the top of the salad, scatter cheddar cheese, and top with the shallots.
1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese

Notes

Choosing the Right Bowl: Using a clear glass bowl or trifle bowl allows you to showcase each layer, making it a visual treat.
Customizing Your Layers: Feel free to swap out or add ingredients based on your preferences.
Dressing Consistency: If you find it too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of milk. On the other hand, if you prefer a tangier taste, consider adding a splash of white vinegar, or lemon juice, or swapping some of the mayo for Greek yogurt. And for those who love a hint of sweetness, a teaspoon of white sugar can do wonders.
Lettuce: While we’ve used iceberg lettuce in our recipe, feel free to use romaine lettuce, baby spinach, or any other crispy head lettuce you prefer. Just make sure it’s fresh and crisp.
Other Peas: Fresh peas or canned peas can be a delightful addition. For fresh, i they’re very young and tender, you can use them raw. Otherwise, blanch them briefly to soften them up a bit. For canned, drain them well before using them.
Mayonnaise Alternatives: Greek yogurt or sour cream can be excellent substitutes for mayonnaise. You can also try using a mix of half mayo and half sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even miracle whip to maintain some of the original taste.
Add Protein: While our recipe is vegetarian, you can definitely add protein sources like chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh. Just ensure they’re cooked and seasoned well before adding them as a layer. If you happen to have any leftover vegan ham, try adding a layer of diced ham to the salad!
Make it Vegan: To make this salad vegan, you can skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. For the salad dressing, use vegan mayo or a mix of vegan sour cream or yogurt with vegan mayonnaise.
Shredded Cheese Choices: We’ve used sharp cheddar in our recipe, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Mild cheddar, Parmesan, or even a mix of your favorite cheeses can be used.
Overnight Salad: One of the great things about the 7 layer salad is that it can be prepared ahead of time. If you’re making it the night before, just cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. We’d recommend adding the crispy shallots just before serving to retain their crunch, and also adding the dressing when you’re about to eat if you’re making the salad well in advance.
Storing Leftovers: Always store your leftover 7 layer salad in the refrigerator. Ideally, try to consume the leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.
Crispy Shallots: Before serving the leftovers, consider making a fresh batch of crispy shallots or your chosen crunchy topping to sprinkle on top. It’ll bring back that delightful contrast of textures that makes this salad so special.

Nutrition

Disclaimer

Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.