Carol Ann'S Seven Layer Salad
A colorful, layered salad featuring fresh lettuce, mushrooms, onions, bacon, cheese, and peas, topped with a sweet mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place lettuce in the bottom of a large bowl.
- Layer mushrooms, red onion, bacon or bacon bits, cheese, and frozen peas over the lettuce.
- Combine mayonnaise and sugar, then spread this mixture evenly on top of the layered ingredients, ensuring to seal the edges.
- Garnish with shredded cheese.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful salad, consider adding diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for color and taste. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise. You can also use turkey bacon for a healthier option. Ensure the layers are tightly packed to prevent sogginess from the mayonnaise. This recipe can easily be adapted to include different vegetables based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a great side dish for barbecues or potlucks, pairing wonderfully with main dishes like Baked Apple Pork Chops or Potato And Carrot Casserole. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or as a light lunch on its own. Garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs for an extra touch before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some crunch as it sits, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you're planning to make it ahead, consider storing the mayonnaise mixture separately and adding it just before serving to preserve the texture of the lettuce and veggies.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carol Ann'S Seven Layer Salad contains roughly 322 calories, with 15g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 remember to layer the ingredients properly and keep the mayonnaise mixture separate until ready to serve. This will help maintain the freshness of the lettuce and prevent it from getting soggy.
What can I substitute for the mayonnaise?
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option or use a vegan mayo for a plant-based version. Some people even enjoy a mixture of sour cream and mayonnaise for a tangy flavor.
How can I add more protein to this salad?
To increase the protein content, consider adding diced grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even hard-boiled eggs. These additions can make it a more filling meal, especially if serving as a main 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).