Description
A fresh and convenient Salad Jars recipe featuring layers of greens, colorful vegetables, proteins, grains, and dressing, perfect for quick, healthy meals on the go. These salad jars are easy to prepare, customizable, and stay fresh for up to five days in the fridge.
Ingredients
Fresh Greens
- Spinach, kale, or romaine – enough to fill jar tops
Vegetables
- Bell peppers – 1 cup, chopped
- Cucumbers – 1 cup, chopped
- Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved
Protein
- Grilled chicken – 1 cup, diced (optional)
- Chickpeas – 1 cup, cooked and drained (optional)
- Hard-boiled eggs – 2, sliced (optional)
Grains
- Quinoa – 1 cup, cooked and cooled (substitute farro if desired)
Dressing
- Homemade vinaigrette or store-bought dressing – 2 to 3 tablespoons per jar
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Wash all fresh produce thoroughly to remove dirt and contaminants, ensuring your salad is clean and safe to eat.
- Prepare Containers: Select pint-sized mason jars that are suitable for single servings and easy storage in the refrigerator.
- Add Dressing: Pour 2 to 3 tablespoons of your chosen dressing into the bottom of each jar. This layering protects the greens from wilting.
- Layer Grains: Add a layer of cooked and cooled grains such as quinoa or farro evenly over the dressing.
- Add Proteins: Place the diced grilled chicken, chickpeas, or sliced hard-boiled eggs over the grain layer according to your preference.
- Layer Vegetables: Follow with colorful vegetables like chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, and halved cherry tomatoes for texture and flavor.
- Top with Greens: Finish layering by packing fresh greens such as spinach, kale, or romaine at the very top to keep them from getting soggy.
- Seal and Store: Seal the jars tightly with lids and refrigerate. The salad jars will stay fresh for up to five days, making them perfect for meal prepping.
Notes
- Customize proteins and grains to suit dietary preferences or availability.
- Shake the jar well before eating to distribute the dressing.
- Use airtight mason jars to maintain freshness and prevent spills.
- Keep salad jars refrigerated and consume within five days for optimal freshness.
- For a vegan version, omit animal proteins and use plant-based dressings.
