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Bright & crisp, Classic 7 Layer Pea Salad wows with pops of green peas, salty bacon, cubed cheddar, lettuce, tomato and green onions all topped with a creamy dressing! Perfect for cookouts, potlucks, holidays and even family meals, this easy salad is as pretty as it is tasty!

7 layer pea salad with bacon layered in a trifle dish

Two words. Surprisingly delicious. The secret? Those crazy little green peas. Bright, with fresh pops of flavor, they’re not even cooked. They’re just defrosted and poured right out of the bag. Who knew those little peas could bring all that garden veggie taste we crave!

This retro salad never ceases to amaze. I’ve never served it when a slow smile didn’t spread across someone’s face after that first bite. “I think I’ve had this before…” as they search for that memory. I can always help with “at church?” That’s when the smile broadens. And with a happy nod, the real eating begins!

What’s In 7 Layer Pea Salad

This layered salad is easy and versatile. There are plenty of ways to make your own special version with add-ins or substitutions!

iceberg lettuce– just the leafy green layers
frozen green peas– DEFROSTED only
grape tomatoes– contain less water and more meat which keeps this salad from getting soggy
green onions– use the tops and the white parts
cubed cheddar cheese– we like sharp cheddar, but mild or regular will work also.
bacon– thick sliced bacon works best in this salad
dressing (real mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, all purpose creole seasoning<< That’s the secret ingredient that will make YOUR salad the best!)

You might want to add: sliced hard boiled eggs, celery, red onion (instead of green), broccoli, cauliflower or broccoli. Whatever you choose, think color! After all, that’s what this bright salad is all about!

How to make the layers of classic pea salad

How To Make Classic 7 Layer Pea Salad

Choose Your Bowl. I love to make this salad in a trifle dish so all of those colorful layers can be seen. But it also can be made in any clear bowl or even a 9×13 dish or foil pan if you’re taking it somewhere.

Prep. Real, thick sliced bacon reallys amps up the yum in this salad. To prep, cook your bacon and chop your veggies. Whisk together your dressing and get ready to layer!

Mayo based dressing for 7 Layer Pea Salad

Make Your Layers. This salad works because the lettuce is on the bottom and the “non wilty” layers are up top close to the dressing.

To have pretty layers that always look nice in a glass bowl, start each layer on the outside closest to the glass first. Make sure all the gaps are filled around the edges, then fill in the center.

Layer lettuce, tomatoes, defrosted peas, green onions and cubed cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and spread evenly to the edges. Top with bacon.

For a little extra flair, I always add a few peas that I kept out or maybe a bit of shredded cheese. Sometimes both!

Bacon, cheese, peas, onion, tomatoes, lettuce and dressing layers of the layered salad.

Make This 7 Layered Pea Salad Ahead of Time

Layered Pea Salad is one green salad that can be made ahead of time and still taste delicious! Simply layer it all up, even the dressing. The word is the dressing seals off the top, keeping everything crisp below. Wrap tightly and refrigerate. Top with bacon the next day and serve!

serve Classic 7 layer pea salad at potlucks and cookouts

What To Serve With Classic 7 Layer Pea Salad

Other Classic Salad Recipes You’ll Love

IF YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE, BE SURE TO LET ME KNOW!

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