When it comes to healthy eating, salads are always a great option. But let’s be real – who has time to prepare a fresh salad every day? That’s why we love salad in a jar! Not only is it convenient, but it also keeps your greens fresh and prevents them from getting soggy. And the best part? These salads can be prepared ahead of time and taken on-the-go.
In this article, we’re sharing 20 delicious and refreshing salad in a jar recipes that are perfect for busy days. From classic combinations to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed meal or a light and refreshing snack, these salads have got you covered. So grab your mason jars and let’s get started!
Greek Salad in a Jar with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad in a jar is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its creamy feta cheese, tangy olives, and crunchy cucumber, it’s a Mediterranean-inspired treat that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup mixed greens
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
• 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp. olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a 16-oz jar or container, layer the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, and cucumber.
2. Drizzle the red wine vinegar and olive oil over the salad.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in no time.
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad in a Jar
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Asian-inspired jarred salad combines crispy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and savory sesame dressing for a flavorful meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
2. In a large glass jar or container, layer mixed greens, diced chicken, red bell pepper, cucumber, and scallions.
3. Pour the sesame dressing over the salad ingredients, making sure everything is coated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time)
Southwest Black Bean and Corn Salad in a Jar
This refreshing salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go. With its bold flavors of black beans, corn, and Southwest spices, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to coat.
4. Divide the salad among 4-6 clean glass jars or containers with lids.
5. Top each jar with a drizzle of olive oil.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, just assemble and chill!
Caprese Salad in a Jar with Balsamic Glaze
A classic Italian-inspired salad gets a new twist by layering it in a jar and finishing it off with a rich balsamic glaze. This refreshing side dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Start by layering the tomato slices in a 1-quart glass jar.
2. Add the sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the cheese.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, making sure everything is coated.
5. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, so it’s ready when you are.
Quinoa and Avocado Salad in a Jar
Elevate your lunch game with this fresh and healthy quinoa salad packed with creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and tangy dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a quick desk snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large jar, combine cooked quinoa, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices.
2. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the top, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Close the lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves (if using).
5. Serve chilled, straight from the jar!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking quinoa) + refrigeration time
Kale Caesar Salad in a Jar with Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your lunch game with this refreshing and crunchy Kale Caesar Salad in a Jar, topped with crispy Parmesan crisps. This jarred delight is perfect for meal prep or a quick office lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine kale, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Layer the jar with salad greens, Caesar dressing mixture, and parsley.
3. For the Parmesan crisps, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
4. Place the Parmesan crisps on top of the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad in a Jar
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the creamy goodness of chickpeas with the zesty zip of Mediterranean ingredients. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large jar or container, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes! (Ready in an instant)
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad in a Jar
A refreshing and flavorful salad packed with noodles, veggies, and creamy peanut sauce – perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked noodles (rice noodles or soba work well)
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crushed peanuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a separate jar, layer mixed greens, bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro.
3. Add cooked noodles on top of the veggies.
4. Pour peanut sauce over the noodles, followed by grated ginger.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with crushed peanuts.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooking time for noodles)
Tips:
– Customize with your favorite veggies or add cooked chicken/shrimp for extra protein.
– Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, shaking well before serving.
Spinach and Strawberry Salad in a Jar with Poppyseed Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Spinach and Strawberry Salad in a Jar is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the tanginess of the poppyseed dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 pint hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon poppyseeds
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese (if using) in a 16-oz glass jar.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the poppyseeds, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients, making sure they’re well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None!
Taco Salad in a Jar with Chipotle Ranch
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional salad jars! This recipe combines the best of Mexican-inspired flavors with a creamy chipotle ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternative options)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chipotle ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar, layer the ingredients in this order: ground beef, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, and crushed tortilla chips.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the salad.
3. Pour the chipotle ranch dressing over the salad, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a quick and easy assembly job.
Beet and Goat Cheese Salad in a Jar
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this refreshing salad in a jar. Layered with roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and fresh greens, this recipe is easy to prepare and takes just 20 minutes to assemble.
Ingredients:
– 1 large beet
– 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap the beet in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let the beet cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer the salad jar with mixed greens, goat cheese crumbles, roasted beets, and chopped walnuts.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (not including beet roasting time)
Rainbow Veggie Salad in a Jar with Lemon Tahini Dressing
Add a pop of color and flavor to your day with this vibrant salad, perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. This recipe layers colorful vegetables, creamy lemon tahini dressing, and crunchy textures in a jar for a healthy and satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the quinoa, mixed greens, carrots, bell peppers, and red onion in a 12 oz mason jar.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, tahini, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
4. Top with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and refrigerate.
Cobb Salad in a Jar with Hard-Boiled Eggs
This classic salad gets a convenient twist by preparing it in a jar! A protein-packed and refreshing meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the mixed greens, chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, red onion, and nuts in a 16-oz Mason jar or a tall glass.
2. Place the sliced hard-boiled eggs on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the jar or glass with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold dish!
Pesto Pasta Salad in a Jar with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Pesto Pasta Salad in a Jar with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
This vibrant salad jar combines the flavors of Italy and Greece, featuring sun-dried tomatoes, creamy pesto sauce, and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or bowtie)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped sun-dried tomatoes and pesto sauce.
3. In a large jar or container, combine cooked pasta, sun-dried tomato-pesto mixture, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple Walnut Salad in a Jar with Maple Dijon Dressing
This salad in a jar is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall, with crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy maple dijon dressing. Layered in a jar, this salad makes for a beautiful and delicious presentation.
Ingredients:
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Layer the salad ingredients in a 12-oz jar or container: apple, walnuts, cranberries, and blue cheese (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the top of the salad.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Salad in a Jar
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad in a Jar! Inspired by the popular street corn found at festivals and fairs, this recipe combines the flavors of grilled corn, creamy cheese, and spicy chili powder in a jar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked corn kernels
– 1/2 cup cream
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1-2 dried arbol chilies, crushed (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a jar, combine cooked corn kernels, cream, queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until the cheese is melted and well combined with the other ingredients.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Garnish with crushed arbol chilies (if using) and a sprinkle of cilantro leaves.
5. Serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
BBQ Chicken Salad in a Jar with Crispy Onions
Elevate your salad game with this mouth-watering BBQ chicken salad recipe, featuring crispy onions and tangy BBQ dressing. Layered in a jar, it’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup crispy onions (see note)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese (if using). Toss gently.
2. Layer ingredients in a 16-ounce mason jar: chicken mixture, crispy onions, and BBQ sauce.
3. Top with ranch dressing and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble the salad in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Note: For crispy onions, thinly slice 1/2 cup of red onion and separate into individual rings. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess, then fry in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle over salad.
Pear and Blue Cheese Salad in a Jar with Candied Pecans
This salad jar recipe combines the sweetness of pears, the tanginess of blue cheese, and the crunch of candied pecans for a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula
– 1/4 cup candied pecans (see below for recipe)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Candied Pecan Recipe:
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and apple cider vinegar.
2. Layer the ingredients in a jar: arugula, pear, blue cheese, and candied pecans.
3. Pour the honey-vinegar mixture over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including refrigeration time)
Moroccan Carrot Salad in a Jar with Harissa Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy kick of harissa, all contained within a jar for easy transport and serving.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound peeled and grated carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons harissa paste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated carrots, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa paste, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss to coat.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad before serving.
6. Pack the salad into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Zucchini Noodle Salad in a Jar with Lemon Garlic Dressing
A refreshing and healthy twist on traditional pasta salad, this zucchini noodle salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The tangy lemon garlic dressing adds a burst of flavor to the tender zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchini into noodles.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. In a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, layer the zucchini noodles, chopped parsley, and lemon garlic dressing.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Discover 20 refreshing salad in a jar recipes perfect for busy days. From classic Greek Salad with Feta and Olives to innovative Quinoa and Avocado Salad, these salads are easy to prepare, delicious, and can be customized to suit your taste. Try making a Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or a Thai Peanut Noodle Salad, or go for something lighter like Spinach and Strawberry Salad or Apple Walnut Salad. Whatever your preference, this collection of salad in a jar recipes has you covered with a variety of flavors and textures.
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