Grandmas Glorious 7Layer Salad Revisited

Recipe Introduction: Grandma's Glorious 7-Layer Salad (Revisited)

Fancy a bit of nostalgia? Ever wondered how to jazz up a classic 7 layer salad ? This is more than just a salad. It's a trip down memory lane.

Quick Hook

Oh my gosh! Remember Nan's potluck salad ? Well, this 7 layer salad recipe takes that classic dish and gives it a chef-y little upgrade.

It's a vibrant, layered masterpiece. Get ready for a flavour explosion.

Brief Overview

The 7 layer salad is an American grandma's salad recipe staple. It's perfect for sharing and full of summer goodness.

This layered salad recipe is easy and requires only 25 minutes prep time. You'll also need 10 minutes of cook time (for the bacon).

This make-ahead salad recipe serves 8-10 people.

Main Benefits

This easy layered salad isn't just tasty, it is also nutritious. Packed with veggies, it's a winner! Serve this at your next barbecue or bring it to a potluck.

This classic 7 layer salad is special because it brings people together.

Ready to dive in? Let's talk ingredients!

Base Layer: Iceberg Lettuce

It starts with that iceberg lettuce salad we all know. You will need one large head, shredded. Don't skimp. Use good quality iceberg.

Veggie Layers: Taste the Rainbow

Next up, the veggies! We are talking 1 cup red onion, 1 1/2 cups celery, and 1 cup green bell pepper. Also, add 1 cup of peas. Think fresh, vibrant colours.

The Secret Ingredient: Bacon

Honestly, the 7 layer salad with bacon is what makes this dish sing. You will need 8 slices, cooked until crispy. Don't burn it!

The Creamy Dreamy Dressing

The dressing brings it all together. Combine 1 1/2 cups of mayo, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar. Do not forget the salt and pepper!

Top it Off: Cheddar Goodness

Finally, sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese. This really makes it feel like the best of the summer salad recipes .

You can also add a bit of parsley if you are feeling fancy. Serve this recipe in a trifle bowl salad dish.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Perfect 7 Layer Salad

Right, let's get down to the nitty gritty. You can't make Grandma's salad recipe without the right bits and bobs. This 7 layer salad recipe isn’t rocket science, but having your ducks in a row makes it even easier.

Trust me, I once tried to wing it and ended up with a soggy disaster. Never again.

Main Ingredients - The Building Blocks

Here's what you'll need to build this layered masterpiece. Remember, quality matters, especially with the mayo. No one wants a vinegary mess! This will be the classic 7 layer salad of your dreams.

• Base Layer:
  • 1 large head iceberg lettuce, cored and shredded (about 8 cups or roughly 1.9 liters )
• Vegetable Layers:
  • 1 cup (237 ml) red onion, thinly sliced. For best results, separate into rings!
  • 1 1/2 cups (355 ml) celery, finely chopped.
  • 1 cup (237 ml) green bell pepper, seeded and diced.
  • 1 cup (237 ml) frozen petite peas, thawed (not cooked). Important: Do not cook the peas .
• Protein Layer:
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled (or 1 cup bacon bits). If you want that savory, salty crunch.
• Dressing Layer:
  • 1 1/2 cups (355 ml) full fat mayonnaise. Here me out here. Full fat mayonnaise is critical for the dressing .
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper
• Top Layer:
  • 1 1/2 cups (355 ml) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Optional: 1/4 cup (60 ml) chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Seasoning Secrets - Aromatic Awesomeness

The mayo dressing is the glue that holds this all together. The sugar balances the tang of the vinegar. Don't skip it! If you’re feeling adventurous, a tiny pinch of smoked paprika adds a nice depth.

Bacon and mayo will always be the perfect couple.

Equipment Essentials

Don't worry; you won't need a fancy gadget.

• Large glass bowl or trifle dish (at least 3-quart capacity, that's about 2.8 liters ). This trifle bowl salad will look stunning.
• Cutting board & Chef's knife.
• Small bowl & Whisk (for the dressing).
• Skillet (if you're cooking bacon from scratch).

Right then, you have all the kit to make this potluck salad a reality! Get cracking!

Grandma's Glorious 7-Layer Salad (Revisited)

Oh my gosh, let’s talk about a salad that's not just a salad: it's a statement! We're diving headfirst into a classic 7 layer salad , Grandma's style, but with a little bit of a modern twist.

This layered salad recipe is perfect for any potluck salad situation. Trust me, this is the kind of dish that makes people smile and ask for seconds! It's also very easy to make, which is a bonus, innit?.

Prep Like a Pro: The Mise en Place Magic

Before we even think about layering, let's get our ducks in a row. We're talking about essential mise en place , darling.

Chop your red onion into thin rings. Finely chop the celery and dice that green bell pepper . Thaw your peas .

If your bacon isn’t already cooked to a crisp, get that going. Seriously, organisation is key for a smooth layering process, love.

step-by-step: Layering Like a Boss

Alright, here's where the magic happens.

1. Cook Bacon: If needed, fry 8 slices of bacon until crispy. Crumble it up and try not to eat half of it.
2. Whip Up the Dressing: Whisk together 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise , 2 tablespoons sugar , 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar , 1/2 teaspoon salt , and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a bowl.
3. Layer It Up: In a glass bowl, layer shredded iceberg lettuce , red onion , celery , green bell pepper , peas , and bacon .
4. Dress It: Gently spread the dressing over the bacon, making sure it's evenly coated.
5. Cheese Please: Top it all off with 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese .
6. Chill Out: Cover it tightly and chill for at least 2 hours , or even better, overnight.

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Salad Game

Honestly, the chilling time is crucial . Don't skimp on that! This gives the flavours a chance to mingle and become best mates.

And use a good quality mayo it makes a difference. Another tip? The 7 layer salad with bacon can be made a day ahead which makes your life so much easier.

Avoid making the salad soggy. Make sure to strain the vegetables so that the salad is perfectly dry.

Grandma would be so proud of this easy layered salad . I'm not sure where the grandma's salad recipe comes from, but I know my gran used to make something like this.

Enjoy!

Recipe Notes for the Ultimate 7 Layer Salad

So, you're ready to tackle Grandma's Glorious 7 layer salad recipe ? Ace! Honestly, this layered salad recipe is easier than making a cuppa.

But let's cover a few bits and bobs to ensure your classic 7 layer salad is a showstopper.

Plating like a Pro & Serving Ideas

Right then, presentation time. We're talking about the best ways to serve this classic. Use a clear glass bowl, ideally a trifle bowl.

This lets everyone see those glorious layers. Honestly, presentation is half the battle. This trifle bowl salad looks fantastic! Serve it cold, as a side at your next BBQ or potluck.

It's the perfect potluck salad . Pair it with grilled meats or even a simple jacket potato. For drinks, think iced tea or lemonade keeps it summery, you know?

Keeping it Fresh: Storage Tips

Let's talk storage, because leftovers might happen! This make-ahead salad recipe is great because you can prepare it a day ahead.

Keep it covered tightly in the fridge. It will last for 2-3 days. Freezing isn't recommended. The mayonnaise gets a bit funny.

To reheat? Nope! Just keep it chilled, love.

Swaps & Twists: Variations on a Theme

Fancy a change? You can easily tweak this 7 layer salad with bacon . Ditch the bacon for a vegetarian version.

Add toasted nuts for extra crunch. For a low-fat option, use light mayonnaise. Don't be afraid to experiment with seasonal ingredients.

Asparagus in spring? Why not! The summer salad recipes are endless.

Nutrition Lowdown

Okay, let's keep it simple. Each serving clocks in around 350-450 calories. You get protein from the bacon and cheese.

There are good carbs from the veggies. The mayonnaise has fat, obviously. Fiber? From the lettuce and other veggies. This isn’t exactly health food, but it's packed with good stuff.

Iceberg Lettuce Salad will give you those vitamin boosts.

Honestly, making this Grandma's salad recipe is a doddle. Don't stress, have fun with it, and enjoy! You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my 7 layer salad recipe get soggy? Is there anything I can do to stop that?

Soggy salad is a common problem! The key is to ensure your vegetables are as dry as possible before layering. Also, chilling the salad for too long can draw moisture out of the veggies, so avoid making it more than 24 hours in advance.

Some chefs use a paper towel at the bottom to absorb moisture, and layering lettuce at the bottom to create a moisture barrier.

Can I make a 7 layer salad recipe ahead of time? How long will it keep?

Yes, that's the beauty of a 7 layer salad! It actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap.

However, be mindful that the lettuce can get a little soft the longer it sits, so don't leave it for too long.

What are some good substitutions or variations I can make to this classic 7 layer salad recipe?

The 7 layer salad is very forgiving! For a Mediterranean twist, try adding Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes with a lemon herb vinaigrette. Vegetarians can omit the bacon and add toasted nuts for crunch.

You can also switch up the cheese, try using greek yogurt instead of mayo, or change the vegetable layers!

What's the best way to serve and store leftover 7 layer salad?

Serve your 7 layer salad cold, directly from the fridge. A glass bowl really shows off the layers. As for leftovers, they're best enjoyed within 24 hours, as the salad can get soggy over time.

Store any remaining salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but be aware that the texture may not be quite as good as the first day - bit like day-old chips from the chippy!

Is 7 layer salad a healthy dish? What are the nutritional considerations?

While it contains vegetables, the 7 layer salad is more of an indulgence than a health food, like a cheeky Nando's after a workout. It's relatively high in fat (from the mayonnaise and bacon) and sodium.

You can lighten it up by using light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the dressing, reducing the amount of bacon, and loading up on the vegetable layers, just like having peas with your fish and chips!