Description
A convenient and healthy way to prepare meals ahead of time, Salad Jars are portable, colorful, and packed with fresh vegetables, grains, and protein. Perfect for quick lunches or light dinners, these salad jars keep ingredients fresh and crisp, with dressing safely separated at the bottom to prevent sogginess.
Ingredients
Fresh Greens
- Spinach, kale, or romaine – as desired
Vegetables
- Bell peppers, sliced – 1 cup
- Cucumbers, diced – 1 cup
- Cherry tomatoes, halved – 1 cup
Protein
- Grilled chicken, chopped – 1 cup (or 1 cup cooked chickpeas or 4 hard-boiled eggs)
Grains
- Quinoa or farro, cooked – 1 cup
Dressing
- Homemade vinaigrette or store-bought dressing – 2 to 3 tablespoons per jar
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash all fresh vegetables and greens thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt and impurities. Prepare protein by grilling chicken or boiling eggs if using, and cook grains like quinoa or farro according to package instructions.
- Choose Jars: Select pint-sized mason jars to hold individual servings of salad, making them easy to store and transport.
- Layer Dressing: Pour 2 to 3 tablespoons of the dressing at the bottom of each jar. This layering keeps the greens fresh and prevents sogginess.
- Add Grains: Spoon a layer of cooked quinoa or farro directly over the dressing for a hearty base.
- Add Protein: Add your choice of protein such as grilled chicken pieces, chickpeas, or chopped hard-boiled eggs over the grains.
- Layer Vegetables: Top the protein with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, adding crunch and freshness.
- Top with Greens: Finish by layering fresh greens such as spinach, kale, or romaine on top, ensuring they stay crisp until eating time.
- Seal and Store: Close the jars tightly with lids and refrigerate. These salad jars will keep fresh for up to five days, making them great for meal prep.
Notes
- Use airtight jars to keep salads fresh longer.
- Keep dressing at the bottom to avoid soggy greens.
- Customize protein and veggies according to your preferences or dietary needs.
- Consume salads within five days for optimal freshness.
- Shake the jar before eating to mix dressing evenly.
