Introduction
A classic 7 layer salad is a vibrant, colorful dish that always steals the show at potlucks, cookouts, and family gatherings. Lina Vexley remembers this salad as the centerpiece of every summer reunion. As a child, she loved watching the beautiful layers stack up inside a clear glass bowl—crisp lettuce, bright tomatoes, crunchy vegetables, creamy dressing, and toppings that made each bite unforgettable. Her grandmother would always say, “A good salad should look as joyful as it tastes,” and this one certainly does. Today, we recreate that nostalgic, crowd-pleasing favorite in a fresh and timeless way.
Classic 7 Layer Salad
Equipment
- Large glass bowl
Ingredients
Salad Layers
- 4 cups iceberg lettuce chopped
- 2 cups grapes red or green
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber sliced
- 1 cup carrots shredded
- 4 hard-boiled eggs sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Toppings
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
Instructions
- Place chopped lettuce as the first layer at the bottom of a clear glass bowl.
- Add grapes, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, eggs, and cheese in distinct layers.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and lemon juice to make the dressing.
- Spread the dressing evenly across the top layer.
- Top with croutons and bacon bits just before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make a 7 Layer Salad (300 Words)
Making a 7 layer salad is as enjoyable as it is visually impressive, and one of the best things about it is how simple the process can be. Begin by choosing a large clear glass bowl—visibility is key because the beauty of this dish lies in seeing each vibrant layer stack on top of the last. Start with the chopped iceberg lettuce as your base. It forms a crisp, refreshing foundation and helps support the rest of the salad.
Next, add the grapes. They add a burst of sweetness and color contrast that pairs beautifully with the salty and creamy elements of the salad. Follow with cherry tomatoes, which bring juiciness and brightness. Then add sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch, and a generous layer of shredded carrots for vibrant color and texture.
Now add your sliced hard-boiled eggs, arranging them neatly around the bowl. This layer adds richness and protein. Then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top to create a satisfying savory layer.
To prepare the dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and lemon juice in a small bowl. This creamy mixture is iconic in traditional 7 layer salads, offering a sweet-tangy balance that complements the vegetables. Spread the dressing evenly over the entire top layer without mixing it into the salad. This technique preserves the layered look and keeps each component fresh until serving.
Finally, just before serving, add croutons and bacon bits. This prevents them from becoming soggy and ensures a crunchy, satisfying topping. You can also customize with green onions, peas, or your favorite cheese.
Chill the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend while maintaining crisp textures. When it’s time to serve, scoop all the way down to the bottom so everyone gets a taste of every delicious layer.
Conclusion
A beautifully assembled 7 layer salad brings color, texture, and nostalgia to any table. Inspired by the memories of Lina Vexley, this recipe celebrates tradition while remaining versatile and easy to prepare. Each layer contributes something unique—from crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes to creamy dressing and crunchy toppings. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and family dinners, this salad is as stunning to look at as it is satisfying to eat. Whether served as a side or main dish, it delivers freshness and flavor in every scoop. Share it with loved ones, and enjoy the vibrant goodness of this timeless classic.