30-Minute Seven Layer Salad

This classic Seven Layer Salad is colorful, creamy, crunchy, and packed with delicious layers of fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese. It comes together in just 30 minutes and is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, picnics, and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 large head iceberg lettuce, washed, dried, and chopped
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 10 oz frozen green peas, thawed
• 10 oz shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup chopped cauliflower
• 1 lb bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled

For the Dressing

• 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crisp and golden. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, let cool, then crumble.
2. Spread the chopped lettuce evenly over the bottom of a large clear glass serving bowl.
3. Add the chopped red onion in an even layer.
4. Add the thawed green peas.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the peas.
6. Add the chopped cauliflower.
7. Finish with the crispy crumbled bacon.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
9. Spread the dressing evenly over the top of the salad, covering the ingredients as much as possible.
10. Cover and refrigerate until chilled. For the best flavor, chill for at least 1 hour or prepare it several hours ahead.
11. Serve cold and gently scoop down through all the layers so everyone gets a little of each ingredient.

Tips

• Prepare the salad up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated.
• A clear glass bowl makes the colorful layers especially beautiful.
• For the best texture, add the dressing no more than several hours before serving.
• You can garnish the top with extra cheddar cheese and bacon before serving.