7-Layer Lettuce Salad
A colorful, layered lettuce salad featuring a blend of fresh vegetables, hard-cooked eggs, and a creamy dressing, topped with cheese and bacon. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners, its vibrant layers and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleaser and a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In an 8-inch square dish, layer the lettuce, celery, peas, onion, green pepper, and eggs in order listed.
- Blend Miracle Whip (or other salad dressing) with sugar and cream.
- Spread the salad dressing mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle grated cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
- Refrigerate several hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley between the layers. For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for Miracle Whip and reduce the sugar. You can also use chopped rotisserie chicken for added protein. If you prefer, swap the Cheddar cheese for crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
This 7-Layer Lettuce Salad is perfect for potlucks or picnics. Serve it alongside grilled meats or a hearty soup like Creamy Swiss And Broccoli Soup for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Apple Sausages With Cornmeal Mush for a delightful brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become soggy if left too long, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you want to reheat any portion, remove the cheese and bacon first, then gently warm in the microwave before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 7-Layer Lettuce Salad contains roughly 346 calories, with 13g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 671mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just layer all the ingredients and cover tightly. Add the cheese and bacon just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
What can I substitute for the frozen peas?
If you don't have frozen peas, you can use fresh peas or even diced cucumbers for a crunchier texture. Just ensure any substitutions are cut into small pieces to maintain the layering effect.
Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the crumbled bacon and replace it with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch. You can also increase the amount of cheese or add more vegetables to enhance the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).