The 7 layer salad – a classic party favorite that never goes out of style. Layers of creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and savory meats come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and visually appealing. But why stick to just one recipe when you can have 19?! In this article, we’re shaking things up by sharing a variety of creative twists on the traditional 7 layer salad. From spicy jalapeños to Mediterranean feta cheese, we’ve got something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab your favorite greens and let’s get started!
Traditional 7 Layer Salad with Ranch Dressing
This classic salad is a staple at many family gatherings and potlucks. With its layers of colorful ingredients, creamy ranch dressing, and crunchy textures, it’s no wonder this salad remains a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup cooked peas
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup crumbled cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 cup ranch dressing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, create the first layer by spreading half of the chopped lettuce on the bottom.
2. Add the second layer by arranging the cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and peas in an even layer.
3. Sprinkle the diced red bell pepper and crumbled cheddar cheese over the top.
4. Finish with a layer of chopped parsley.
5. Pour the ranch dressing over the salad and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Vegetarian 7 Layer Salad with Avocado
This vibrant salad is a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic 7-layer salad, featuring creamy avocado as one of its seven layers. Perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, black beans, cucumber, and carrots.
2. Arrange the diced avocado as the fifth layer on top of the vegetables.
3. Add the chopped red bell pepper as the sixth layer.
4. Top with parsley as the seventh and final layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Spicy 7 Layer Salad with Jalapeños
This vibrant salad combines the classic seven layers with a spicy kick from jalapeños, perfect for those who crave a little heat. With its colorful presentation and flavorful mix of textures, it’s sure to impress at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup of cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, layer the chopped lettuce, black beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the layers.
3. Add the chopped jalapeños on top of the cheese.
4. Spread the mayonnaise over the jalapeños.
5. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep time only)
Mediterranean 7 Layer Salad with Feta Cheese
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this colorful salad featuring layers of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, layer the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
2. Top with crumbled feta cheese and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including preparation time)
Low-Carb 7 Layer Salad with Cauliflower Rice
This refreshing salad combines the classic 7-layer structure with a low-carb twist, using cauliflower rice as a creative substitute for traditional lettuce. The result is a delicious and healthier take on a retro favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and kale)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Cook the cauliflower “rice” in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble the salad by layering the cooked cauliflower, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, chicken breast, feta cheese, and parsley in a large bowl.
5. Drizzle the remaining olive oil and lemon juice over the top, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwest 7 Layer Salad with Black Beans
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of the Southwest with the convenience of a layered dish. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, create the first layer with black beans.
2. Add the second layer of cherry tomatoes on top of the black beans.
3. Follow with the third layer of corn kernels.
4. Layer the diced avocado on top of the corn.
5. Add the sliced red bell pepper as the fifth layer.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the bell pepper.
7. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just 10 minutes.
Greek 7 Layer Salad with Kalamata Olives
This classic Greek salad gets a boost of flavor from the addition of salty kalamata olives, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the cherry tomatoes in a single layer.
2. Add the cucumber slices on top of the tomatoes.
3. Next, add the Kalamata olives, spreading them out evenly.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the olives.
5. Top with the thinly sliced red onion and chopped parsley.
6. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Bacon Lover’s 7 Layer Salad with Cheddar
A creamy, crunchy, and smoky twist on the classic 7-layer salad, this recipe adds a rich bacon element that takes it to the next level. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, layer the chopped lettuce.
2. Add the diced chicken breast on top of the lettuce.
3. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes.
4. Sprinkle crumbled cheddar cheese over the tomatoes.
5. Add the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.
6. Mix together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Spoon this mixture evenly over the salad.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and serve.
Seafood 7 Layer Salad with Shrimp
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant and flavorful Seafood 7 Layer Salad, featuring succulent shrimp as the star of the show. This refreshing dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or a show-stopping side.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup red onion slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook shrimp according to package instructions; chill.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion slices.
3. Arrange cooked shrimp in the center of the salad.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese and parsley around the shrimp.
5. Drizzle lemon juice and olive oil over the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes cooking time for shrimp)
Asian-Inspired 7 Layer Salad with Sesame Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and visually stunning Asian-inspired creation, featuring crispy wonton strips, savory edamame, and a tangy sesame dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked edamame
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup crispy wonton strips (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Sesame Dressing (recipe below)
Sesame Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, edamame, cucumber, bell peppers, and scallions.
2. Top with crispy wonton strips and toasted sesame seeds.
3. Drizzle Sesame Dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Vegan 7 Layer Salad with Tahini Dressing
A vibrant and refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion, this vegan 7 layer salad features a creamy tahini dressing to tie everything together. With its layers of colorful vegetables, crunchy nuts, and tangy dressing, this salad is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Tahini dressing (see below)
Tahini Dressing:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, create the first layer with the mixed greens.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, sliced red bell peppers, and cucumber on top of the greens.
3. Spread the cooked chickpeas over the vegetables.
4. Sprinkle the chopped parsley and walnuts over the chickpeas.
5. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus prep time)
Tex-Mex 7 Layer Salad with Corn and Salsa
A flavorful twist on the classic layered salad, this Tex-Mex version adds a pop of color and zesty flavor with fresh corn and salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade salsa
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the lettuce in an even layer.
2. Top with black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn kernels.
3. Drizzle salsa over the vegetables.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro and squeeze lime juice over the salad.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve this salad in just a few minutes.
Summer Fresh 7 Layer Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
A refreshing twist on the classic 7 layer salad, this recipe incorporates sweet cherry tomatoes and a burst of summer flavors. Perfect for potlucks or backyard gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and chicken breast.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with feta cheese, parsley, and scallions.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Cheesy 7 Layer Salad with Parmesan and Mozzarella
This classic salad gets a boost of flavor from the combination of creamy cheeses, crunchy greens, and sweet vegetables. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this layered beauty is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup cooked elbow macaroni
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, layer the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and cooked macaroni.
2. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cheese on top.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep only)
Healthy 7 Layer Salad with Quinoa
This colorful salad is a nutritious twist on the classic 7-layer dish. With quinoa replacing traditional pasta, this recipe adds protein and fiber to each serving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, and carrots.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Top with cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Gluten-Free 7 Layer Salad with Almonds
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring layers of colorful vegetables, creamy dressing, and crunchy almonds. It’s an easy and impressive side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (gluten-free)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup gluten-free mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, create the layers starting with the rice, then mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, red onion, and parsley.
2. Drizzle the gluten-free mayonnaise over the salad, followed by a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
3. Top with sliced almonds and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
BBQ 7 Layer Salad with Pulled Pork
This hearty salad combines the rich flavors of BBQ pulled pork with a colorful medley of textures and tastes, making it perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pulled pork
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup crumbled red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and crumbled red onion.
2. Top with pulled pork, spreading evenly.
3. Sprinkle blue cheese and pecans over the pork.
4. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tropical 7 Layer Salad with Pineapple
Get ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this colorful and refreshing salad! Layers of juicy pineapple, crunchy pecans, and creamy avocado come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the mixed greens as the base layer.
2. Add a layer of pineapple chunks on top.
3. Next, add a layer of cherry tomatoes, followed by sliced red onion.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the onion layer.
5. Top with a layer of diced avocado.
6. Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Italian 7 Layer Salad with Pepperoni
A classic Italian-inspired salad that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. Layers of creamy goodness, crunchy veggies, and savory pepperoni make this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 cup crumbled mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup cream salad dressing
– 12 slices pepperoni
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl or trifle dish, create the first layer with chopped romaine lettuce.
2. Add a second layer with cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices.
3. Next, add Kalamata olives, followed by crumbled mozzarella cheese.
4. Drizzle cream salad dressing over the cheese to create the fourth layer.
5. Arrange pepperoni slices on top of the salad.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe perfect for busy days.
Summary
Get creative with these 19 classic 7 layer salad recipes! From traditional to vegetarian, spicy to Mediterranean, and even vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique flavor combinations like avocado and ranch dressing, jalapeños and cheddar cheese, or quinoa and black beans. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option with cauliflower rice or a seafood twist with shrimp, these salads are sure to satisfy your taste buds. With so many variations, you’ll never get bored with this classic party favorite again!
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