Print

Classic 7 Layer Salad with Tangy Buttermilk Dressing

A tall, round 7 layer salad presented like a cake, topped with cheese, bacon, and chives.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This classic 7 Layer Salad presents fresh vegetables, eggs, cheese, and bacon in distinct layers, topped with a creamy, tangy dressing. It is a reliable, make-ahead side dish perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup sliced red onion
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the layers: In a large, clear glass bowl, begin layering the ingredients in the following order: half of the iceberg lettuce, all of the thawed peas, half of the sliced eggs, half of the shredded cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, half of the tomatoes, and half of the red onion.
  3. Repeat the layers with the remaining lettuce, eggs, cheese, bacon, tomatoes, and onion. Do not add the dressing yet.
  4. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the salad for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
  5. Just before serving, spread the prepared tangy buttermilk dressing evenly over the top layer of the salad.
  6. Serve immediately, scooping deep to get all seven layers in each portion.

Notes

  • You can prepare all the chopped ingredients and the dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator.
  • Assemble the salad no more than 12 hours before serving for the best texture.
  • If you do not have buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/7-layer-salad-recipe/