Let’s talk about mason jar salads – they’re my fave new way to meal prep! Imagine a jar filled with layers of fresh and tasty ingredients that stay crunchy all week long. No more sad, soggy salads, I promise! If you haven’t tried them yet, trust me, you’ll be addicted like me. And if you’re already a fan, well, I’m about to share some tips and ideas to take your salad game to the next level!
Here’s why mason jar salads are so great:
- Say Bye Bye To Soggy Salads: There is a special layering trick {keep reading to learn more!} that keeps the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. So, no worries about wilted greens anymore!
- Super Portable: You can carry your jar salad anywhere, no extra bowls necessary. Just shake it up when you’re hungry, and you’re good to go! PSA: If you wanted to bring an extra bowl and dump out the contents of your jar into it, you can – this is what I do as you can really mix everything up out of the jar}
- Endless Possibilities: Get creative with ingredients – use your favorite dressings, protein, and a variety of toppings, and mix and match to your heart’s content.
Everything you need to know about the mason jar salad recipe layering trick!
Now, before I share my absolute favorite mason jar salad recipe with you, I need to share with you the oh-so-clever layering trick! Your mind will be blown and yet you will understand the logic behind it. The first time I heard about it, I was like, “whyyy didn’t I know about this sooner or think of it myself?!” It’s pure genius. Here it goes…
- Dressing Goes Into the Jar First!: Pour your favorite dressing into the jar. This is the secret to keeping everything flavorful and not soggy.
- Sturdy Stuff Goes Next: Add in the tougher ingredients like chopped veggies, beans, or grains next to create a barrier between the dressing and the more delicate components of your salad.
- Proteins Take the Middle Spot: Add some grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, salmon, or any protein you love. This layer enhances the flavor and nutritional content.
- Top It Off With Your Leafy Greens: Pile those fresh, leafy greens on top. They are obviously the main attraction in your salad and will most likely take up the most room in your jar. PRO TIP: chop them finely to make your salad even more delicious!!
My Favorite Mason Jar Salad Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Mason Jar
Ingredients
- 1/8 cup Honey Mustard Dressing My fave version that I always keep in the house is from Ken's Steak House
- 1/8 cup Edamame
- 1/8 cup Sweet yellow corn
- 1/8 cup Black Beans
- 1/8 cup Artichoke Hearts
- 1/8 cup Avocado
- 1/8 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1/4 cup Grilled Chicken, cubed Because who has time to cook a chicken breast and then let it cool, I bought the Trader Joe's Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast that is fully cooked and delicious!
- Finely Chopped Romaine Lettuce No measurement because you will fill the jar up with it to the top – you will probably use about 1 cup of lettuce.
- 1/8 cup Wasabi Peas
Instructions
- Grab a clean mason jar.
- Pour in the honey mustard dressing at the bottom.
- Add all the ingredients into the jar in the order they are listed in the ingredient list. *Feel free to omit anything you don't like or may not have on hand.
- Seal the jar tight and chill it in the fridge until you are ready to eat!
- Once ready to eat, shake, shake, shake the jar really well, and pour the contents into a bowl. Or eat it in the jar as is!!
Notes
- I have been using these airtight glass jars that come with bamboo lids and spoons in place of mason jars. They are 17 oz. and wonderful!
- Wasabi peas are typically NOT gluten-free but I found this gluten-free version that I used in the recipe.
When you’re hungry, simply shake the jar well, open it up, and start eating! It’s SO freaking good, I know you’ll love it!
If it wasn’t obvious enough, I highly recommend you give mason jar salads a shot – they’re easy, tasty, and perfect for busy weekdays, picnics, or anytime you want a quick, healthy meal. Feel free to experiment with your recipes, as the possibilities are endless! Have fun trying out different combos and enjoy!!
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Then you will LOVE this green smoothie recipe that will literally change your life for the better! Plus, find out the best-ever smoothie cups for kids!
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These salads look amazing! Definitely making asap. 😍