The classic 7 layer salad – a staple at many family gatherings and potlucks. A simple combination of lettuce, vegetables, fruits, and proteins, layered beautifully in a bowl. But why stick to the same old recipe when you can shake things up? In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 unique 7 layer salads that put a twist on the traditional recipe.
From spicy Mexican-inspired recipes to healthy vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to spice up your lunch routine or impress your guests at the next big gathering, these creative takes on the classic 7 layer salad are sure to delight. So go ahead, get creative, and take your salads to the next level!
Traditional 7 Layer Salad with Creamy Dressing
A classic potluck favorite, this 7 layer salad is a refreshing mix of textures and flavors that’s perfect for any gathering. With its creamy dressing and colorful layers, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup of cucumber slices
– 1 cup of sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of crushed crackers (such as Ritz or saltines)
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red bell peppers.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Spread half of the dressing over the salad layers in the bowl.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and crushed crackers evenly over the top of the salad.
5. Drizzle with the remaining dressing and garnish with chopped parsley.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, but it can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 hours.
Vegetarian 7 Layer Salad with Avocado and Corn
A colorful and refreshing salad that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick lunch. This vegetarian 7 layer salad combines creamy avocado, sweet corn, and tangy dressing for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup red onion rings
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, diced avocado, corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion rings.
2. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top (if using).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Mexican 7 Layer Salad with Jalapeños
This vibrant salad combines the bold flavors of Mexico with a spicy kick from jalapeños. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick lunch, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, cheese, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Arrange the jalapeños on top of the salad in a single layer.
3. Drizzle sour cream and lime juice over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Ranch 7 Layer Salad
A creamy, crunchy, and utterly delicious salad that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. This Cheesy Bacon Ranch 7 Layer Salad is an impressive yet easy-to-make dish that combines the best of comfort food with fresh flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup crumbled bacon
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, layer the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, and mayonnaise in that order.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (excluding chilling time)
Greek-Inspired 7 Layer Salad with Feta and Olives
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful Greek-inspired masterpiece, featuring crumbly feta cheese, briny olives, and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the chopped romaine lettuce as the base layer.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and Kalamata olives in alternating layers, ending with a layer of vegetables on top.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar evenly over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assemble just before serving)
Healthy 7 Layer Salad with Kale and Quinoa
This vibrant salad brings together the best of healthy ingredients, featuring nutrient-dense kale and quinoa as the base. A medley of colorful layers adds texture and flavor to this satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and chopped kale.
2. Layer the remaining ingredients in order: black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of assembly.
Low-Carb 7 Layer Salad with Cauliflower Rice
This refreshing salad is a low-carb twist on the classic 7-layer salad, featuring cauliflower rice as a delicious substitute for traditional pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup of chopped cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup of chopped hard-boiled egg
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, red onion, and chopped egg.
3. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken 7 Layer Salad with Blue Cheese
A flavorful twist on the classic 7 layer salad, this recipe combines spicy buffalo chicken, creamy blue cheese, and crunchy greens for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the cooked chicken and buffalo sauce.
2. In a large bowl or trifle dish, create the layers in the following order: mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, blue cheese crumbles, red onion, and finally the buffalo chicken mixture.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in no time!
Southwestern 7 Layer Salad with Black Beans
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of the Southwest with the convenience of a layered masterpiece. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 (16 ounce) jar Southwestern-style ranch dressing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the mixed greens as the first layer.
2. Spread half of the black beans over the greens.
3. Add cherry tomatoes on top, followed by chicken breast, queso fresco or feta cheese, and cilantro.
4. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the Southwestern-style ranch dressing over the salad in the jar.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve when ready.
Seafood 7 Layer Salad with Shrimp and Crab
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing seafood delight, featuring succulent shrimp and crab, paired with a medley of colorful vegetables and creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, cooked and chilled
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 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. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper strips.
2. Arrange the shrimp and crab meat on top of the vegetables in separate layers.
3. Sprinkle the feta cheese and parsley over the seafood layers.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Vegan 7 Layer Salad with Hummus Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this vegan take on the classic 7 layer salad, featuring a creamy hummus dressing. This refreshing and flavorful dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled vegan feta cheese (optional)
– Hummus dressing ingredients: 1/2 cup hummus, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, layer the chopped lettuce, chickpeas, bell peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the hummus, lemon juice, and olive oil to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad layers and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled vegan feta cheese (if using).
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
BBQ Pulled Pork 7 Layer Salad
Elevate your salad game with this satisfying BBQ pulled pork and layer extravaganza!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the mixed greens as the base layer.
2. Add the shredded pork shoulder on top of the greens, followed by cherry tomatoes and red onion.
3. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the vegetables.
4. Drizzle BBQ sauce and Greek yogurt in alternating layers.
5. Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is perfect for using leftover pork or cooking time can be reduced if using pre-cooked pork.
Italian 7 Layer Salad with Pepperoni
This colorful salad is a twist on the classic layered salad, adding the savory flavor of pepperoni to give it an Italian flair. Perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of Italian-style diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of pepperoni slices
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup of chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup of crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the romaine lettuce in an even layer.
2. Top with Italian-style diced tomatoes, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Add a layer of pepperoni slices on top of the tomatoes.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 two more times, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Garnish with chopped red onion and cucumber around the edges.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle crumbled blue cheese on top.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, so refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cobb Salad-Inspired 7 Layer Salad
This refreshing salad combines the classic flavors of a Cobb salad with the ease and visual appeal of a layered dish. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked chicken (such as grilled or rotisserie)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil and lemon juice dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the lettuce in an even layer.
2. Add a layer of cherry tomatoes on top of the lettuce.
3. Next, add the cucumber slices, followed by the feta cheese, parsley, and nuts.
4. Top with the cooked chicken.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus prep time)
Rainbow Veggie 7 Layer Salad with Tahini Dressing
Bring a pop of color and a boost of nutrition to your next gathering with this vibrant salad, featuring layers of colorful vegetables, creamy tahini dressing, and crunchy textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1 cup sliced yellow bell pepper
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Tahini Dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Tahini Dressing:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, layer the vegetables in the following order: cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, carrots, black beans, mixed greens.
2. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle Tahini Dressing over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Asian-Inspired 7 Layer Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant and flavorful dish, combining the best of Asian cuisine with a classic layered salad. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup crumbled crispy wonton strips (optional)
– Sesame Ginger Dressing (recipe below)
Sesame Ginger Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the mixed greens as the base layer.
2. Add the chicken, red bell pepper, cucumber, and scallions in that order.
3. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and crispy wonton strips (if using) on top.
4. Drizzle the Sesame Ginger Dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a layered salad with no cooking required!
Taco 7 Layer Salad with Salsa and Guacamole
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of Mexico with creamy guacamole and tangy salsa, perfect for a quick and delicious meal or gathering. Layers of crisp greens, tender beans, juicy tomatoes, and savory ground beef create a colorful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons salsa
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed for guacamole
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, arrange the chopped lettuce as the base layer.
2. Add the black beans on top of the lettuce.
3. Next, add the diced tomatoes, followed by the cooked ground beef.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
5. Drizzle the salsa and sour cream over the salad, then sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required – just assemble and serve!
Pesto Parmesan 7 Layer Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant, flavorful combination of creamy pesto, crispy parmesan, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cooked pasta, pesto sauce, and shredded parmesan cheese. Toss until well combined.
3. Arrange cherry tomatoes on top of the salad in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the cherry tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your classic 7 layer salad to the next level! This article presents 18 innovative recipes that add a twist to the traditional dish. From creamy dressings to spicy kick, and from vegan to meat-lovers, there’s something for everyone. Discover new flavors with Vegetarian 7 Layer Salad with Avocado and Corn, Spicy Mexican 7 Layer Salad with Jalapeños, or Cheesy Bacon Ranch 7 Layer Salad. Or try healthier options like Healthy 7 Layer Salad with Kale and Quinoa or Low-Carb 7 Layer Salad with Cauliflower Rice. With such a variety of flavors and ingredients, you’re sure to find the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings.
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