7 Layer Salad (Seven Layer Salad Recipe)
The retro classic salad with a modern twist. Iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, bacon, hard boiled eggs, avocado, cucumber, garbanzo beans (optional), topped with homemade ranch dressing.
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 1 head Iceberg Lettuce (or Romaine Hearts)
- 6 to 8 slices Bacon (cooked until crispy)
- 4 to 6 Hard Boiled Eggs (peeled and chopped)
- 1 1/2 cups Cheddar Cheese
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups Grape or Cherry Tomatoes (cut in half lengthwise)
- 2 Avocados (diced and sprinkled with lemon juice)
- 1 Hot House Cucumber
- 1 can Garbanzo Beans (optional, rinse and drained)
- Homemade Ranch Dressing
https://www.modernhoney.com/homemade-ranch-dressing/
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon. There are two methods to choose from: Oven Method - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. Place bacon slices in a single layer. Bake 18–20 minutes, or until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled. Skillet Method - Place bacon in a cold skillet, then turn the heat to medium. Cook, halfway through, until evenly crisp (8–12 minutes). Drain on paper towels and crumble.
- Prep the other salad ingredients. Lettuce: Chop or shred iceberg and pat dry thoroughly (wet lettuce = soggy salad). Eggs: Hard-boil, then chop coarsely. Cheddar: Shred or use pre-shredded sharp cheddar. Tomatoes: Slice grape/cherry tomatoes lengthwise. Peas or Garbanzo Beans: Rinse under warm water to thaw and pat dry or drain garbanzo beans. Cucumbers: Cut into halves. Avocados: Dice right before layering. To prevent browning, toss in lemon juice (1–2 tsp per avocado).
- Assemble the Salad. Layer the 7 salad ingredients depending on preference. Here is a suggested order: Lettuce (base layer), Tomatoes (cut side up to prevent sogginess), Peas or garbanzo beans, Tomatoes (cut side up to prevent sogginess), Hard Boiled Chopped eggs, Diced cucumbers or avocados (may put on top), Crispy bacon crumbles, and Cheddar cheese.
- Add the Dressing. Drizzle ranch dressing evenly over the top layer of the salad. Do NOT toss until ready to serve as it keep the layers crisp and pretty.
