Salad jars have become a trendy and practical way to enjoy a fresh and healthy meal on-the-go. These Mason jars are perfect for meal prepping and can keep your salads fresh for several days. You know what that means…. TIME SAVINGS! Let’s get you started and supply you with a recipes for a tasty salad jar!
The concept is SIMPLE – you layer your favorite ingredients in a mason jar in a specific order!
Start with the dressing at the bottom, then adding your vegetables, proteins, grains, and finally, your leafy greens. The result is a PERFECTLY balanced meal that can be eaten straight from the jar or poured onto a plate.
What jars keep salad fresh?
When it comes to salad jars, mason jars are the most popular choice as they are airtight and can keep the ingredients fresh for several days. Other types of jars with airtight lids, such as canning jars or snap-top containers, can also work well.
How long will salad in a jar last?
Salads in a jar can last anywhere from 3-5 days in the refrigerator, depending on the ingredients used and how well the jar was sealed. To ensure maximum freshness, it is essential to store the jars in the fridge and keep them away from heat.
Why use jars?
People use salad jars for various reasons. One reason is that they are convenient and easy to carry around. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or just running errands, you can easily toss your jar into your bag and enjoy your meal whenever you’re ready.
They are also perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to make multiple salads at once and store them in the fridge for quick and easy access.
Mason jar lunches are an eco-friendly alternative to plastic containers. They are reusable, durable, and can last for years with proper care. Plus, you can reduce your plastic waste by using them instead of disposable containers.
Here are a few tips to help you get started with mason salad jars:
- Choose the right size jar for your meal. A quart-sized (1 liter) jar is a good option for most lunches. I would recommend the ones that I have and love! Click here to make them yours too!
- Save a ton of time by using this vegetable chopper and this garlic press!
- Start with the dressing at the bottom of the jar. This will prevent your more fragile ingredients from getting soggy.
- Layer your ingredients in a specific order, starting with the heavier, heartier ingredients and ending with the delicate greens.
- Pack your jar tightly to prevent shifting and keep your ingredients fresh.
- Store your jar in the fridge until you’re ready to eat. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply shake the jar to mix the ingredients and dig in!
Salad jars are a convenient, healthy, and eco-friendly way to enjoy a delicious meal on the go. With a little creativity and preparation, you can create a variety of delicious and nutritious meals that will keep you satisfied throughout the day. The best part is, they save you so much time during your busy work week, by not having to make lunches every day.
Here are two DELICIOUS mason jar recipes that my family love, but if you are looking for something else, try a classic Caesar salad with homemade Caesar dressing without anchovies!
Greek Salad Jars
Equipment
- 5 1 liter Mason Jars
Ingredients
Dressing
- 2/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 5 cloves pressed garlic
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Salad
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups sliced red onion
- 2 cups sliced cucumber
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 1.2 cups sliced green pepper
- 1 1/2 cups pitted Kalamata olives
- 2 cups crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups canned chickpeas
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
Instructions
- Cook your quinoa as per the instructions found on the package and let cool down.
- In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic, salt and black pepper.
- Start with your dressing and then layer your jars with the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, green pepper, cucumber, quinoa, feta cheese, Kalamata olives and spinach.
- Seal the jars and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days!
Notes
Summer Strawberry Power Jar
Equipment
- 5 1 liter Mason Jars
Ingredients
Dressing
- 2/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 5 cloves pressed garlic
- 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Salad
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 2 cups sliced cucumber
- 1 1/2 cups sliced red onion
- 2-3 cups spinach
- 1 1/2 cups sliced strawberries
- 1 1/2 cups crumbled goat cheese
- 1 1/2 cups maple almonds
Instructions
- Cook your quinoa as per the instruction on the package and let cool down.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Start with your dressing and layer your jars with the quinoa, cucumber, red onion, goat cheese, strawberries, spinach and lastly the maple almonds in each jar.
- Seal the jars and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Love the mason jar lunches! Thank you Tera!
Thank you Tammy-Lee! It sure does save a lot of time during the week. 🙂