Looking for a colorful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for gatherings? This layered garden salad without bacon is a showstopper. With vibrant vegetables and a creamy dressing, it’s not just visually appealing – it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
This salad is versatile and can be customized based on your favorite vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply want a light lunch, this salad will add a pop of color to your table and is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Vibrant Layers of Freshness
The 7 layer garden salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Each layer showcases a different color and texture, creating a stunning visual appeal that draws everyone in.
From the crisp lettuce at the base to the creamy cheese topping, this salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients.
Colorful Ingredients
Starting with the crisp lettuce, this salad serves as a refreshing base.
Adding halved cherry tomatoes introduces a burst of juiciness, while diced cucumbers bring crunch and hydration.
Chopped bell peppers add a sweet crunch, and shredded carrots provide a touch of earthiness.
Finally, thawed green peas offer a pop of sweetness and vibrant color, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Layering Technique
The beauty of this salad lies in its layering technique.
Each ingredient is carefully added in specific order, ensuring that the texture and flavor are well balanced throughout the dish.
Begin with the chopped lettuce, followed by the tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, carrots, and peas. This method not only enhances the presentation but also keeps the ingredients fresher for longer.
Delicious Creamy Dressing
A creamy dressing is essential for this garden salad.
Spread mayonnaise or Greek yogurt over the colorful layers, allowing it to seep into the vegetables, creating a creamy texture that complements the crunch.
Season with salt and pepper to elevate the flavors further, ensuring each bite is satisfying and delicious.
Cheese Topping
No salad is complete without a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese on top.
This layer not only adds richness but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Opt for cheddar or your cheese of choice to achieve a creamy finish that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
Chill for Maximum Flavor
.Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving.
This resting period is crucial for the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious taste experience.
When it’s time to serve, the salad can be garnished with fresh herbs for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Delicious 7 Layer Garden Salad Recipe
This 7 layer salad is a delightful medley of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and sweet bell peppers, all topped with a creamy dressing. The layers create a beautiful presentation, making it a perfect dish for potlucks and picnics.
Ingredients
- 1 head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a large glass dish or bowl, layer the chopped lettuce as the first layer.
- Add the Layers: Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, followed by the diced cucumber, chopped bell pepper, and shredded carrots. Sprinkle the thawed peas on top.
- Add the Dressing: Spread the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt evenly over the top of the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with Cheese: Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the dressing, covering the entire surface.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 8 portions
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
