Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and nutrition on busy days? Look no further! Salads in a jar are the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and healthy meal. Not only do they save time, but they’re also visually appealing and can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with 20 refreshing salad in a jar recipes that will keep your taste buds dancing. From classic Greek Salad to exotic Thai Peanut Noodle, each recipe is carefully crafted to combine flavors, textures, and presentation. Whether you’re a busy professional or a health-conscious individual, these salads are sure to become a staple in your daily routine.
Greek Salad in a Jar with Feta and Olives
A classic Greek salad in a jar, featuring creamy feta cheese and briny olives, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint-sized mason jar
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and red onion in the mason jar.
2. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Salad in a Jar
Discover the harmonious balance of flavors and textures in this refreshing salad, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar, combine mixed greens, chicken breast, pickled ginger, and sesame seeds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the jar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( assembly only)
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of soy sauce to your taste, if you prefer a lighter flavor.
– You can also add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch.
– Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Southwest Black Bean and Corn Salad in a Jar
Add a burst of flavor to your day with this colorful and nutritious salad jar! This Southwest-inspired recipe combines the comfort of black beans, sweet corn, and crunchy bell peppers.
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 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with cilantro.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Layer the salad in a 1-quart jar: add the black bean mixture first, followed by the dressing (lime juice and olive oil).
6. Top with cilantro for garnish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Caprese Salad in a Jar with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your caprese salad game by transforming it into a visually stunning and flavorful jarred delight, perfect for potlucks or meal prep. This recipe combines the classic trio of mozzarella, tomato, and basil with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the jar with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the ingredients, followed by a spoonful of balsamic glaze.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Quinoa and Kale Power Salad in a Jar
Elevate your salad game with this nutrient-packed Quinoa and Kale Power Salad in a Jar! This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy goodness of kale, all wrapped up in a convenient jar.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together quinoa, chopped kale, red bell pepper, and feta cheese (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pack the salad into a 1-quart mason jar or similar container.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of assembly.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad in a Jar
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of a jarred meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. In a jar with a wide mouth, combine chickpeas, cucumber, red bell pepper, and olives.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle parsley on top and seal the jar.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep) + chilling time
Taco Salad in a Jar with Avocado Lime Dressing
A twist on traditional taco salads, this jarred version is perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. The creamy avocado lime dressing brings it all together.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (or substitute with beans or chicken)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the mixed greens, ground beef, tomatoes, cilantro, and queso fresco in a 16-ounce jar.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the olive oil, lime juice, and diced avocado. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad layers.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Summer Berry Spinach Salad in a Jar
Summer Berry Spinach Salad in a Jar Recipe
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of fresh berries with the earthiness of spinach, all in a convenient jar.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup mixed summer berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar with a wide mouth, add the spinach leaves.
2. Top the spinach with the mixed berries.
3. Sprinkle the feta cheese over the berries.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( assemble the salad and serve)
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad in a Jar
This Thai-inspired salad combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the crunch of noodles and fresh vegetables, all in a convenient jar. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 2 tablespoons peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut sauce, soy sauce, and honey until smooth.
3. In a jar or container, layer the mixed greens, cooked noodles, sliced bell pepper, and carrots.
4. Drizzle the peanut sauce mixture over the top of the salad.
5. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top.
6. Serve immediately, or store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Beet and Goat Cheese Salad in a Jar
A colorful and refreshing salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This jarred salad is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 large beet, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a jar, layer the sliced beets, mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped nuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the jar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on preparation time)
Rainbow Veggie Salad in a Jar with Tahini Dressing
A vibrant and healthy salad that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch on-the-go! This recipe features a colorful mix of vegetables, topped with creamy tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced zucchini
– 1/4 cup sliced avocado
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large jar, layer the mixed greens, red bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and avocado.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the jar.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Buffalo Chicken Salad in a Jar with Blue Cheese
This recipe combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the creaminess of blue cheese, all wrapped up in a convenient salad-in-a-jar. Perfect for lunch or dinner on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Jar or container with lid (at least 1 quart capacity)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, ranch dressing, and Frank’s RedHot sauce. Mix well.
2. Layer ingredients in the jar: chicken mixture, blue cheese, celery, and red bell pepper.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Close lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time)
Pesto Pasta Salad in a Jar with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. The combination of creamy pesto, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and al dente pasta makes for a delightful meal that’s ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using). Mix well.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and salt. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer the salad to a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Apple Walnut Salad in a Jar with Maple Dijon Dressing
This Apple Walnut Salad in a Jar is a delightful and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Crunchy apples, toasted walnuts, and crisp greens are layered with a tangy Maple Dijon Dressing for a snack or light meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp Maple Dijon Dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Maple Dijon Dressing:
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Layer the mixed greens, diced apple, and chopped walnuts in a 16 oz jar or container.
2. Add crumbled feta cheese if using.
3. Drizzle the Maple Dijon Dressing over the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook Time: None! Just assemble and refrigerate.
Mexican Street Corn Salad in a Jar
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional salad, this Mexican Street Corn Salad in a Jar is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With the sweetness of corn, tanginess of lime juice, and spiciness of chili powder, every bite is a fiesta in your mouth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked corn kernels
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large jar, combine cooked corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and queso fresco.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the ingredients and sprinkle with chili powder.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep time)
Cobb Salad in a Jar with Hard-Boiled Eggs
A classic salad gets a new twist when served in a jar! This Cobb Salad in a Jar is the perfect meal prep for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the egg and slice it into wedges.
2. In a large mason jar, layer the mixed greens, chicken breast, blue cheese, red bell pepper, and cucumber in that order.
3. Top with sliced hard-boiled eggs.
4. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None!
Moroccan Carrot and Lentil Salad in a Jar
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the earthy flavor of lentils, all wrapped up in a jar. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this Moroccan-inspired recipe is packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, grated carrots, parsley, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and cumin.
3. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pack into a clean glass jar or container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of assembly.
Kale Caesar Salad in a Jar with Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your salad game with this creamy, crunchy, and utterly delicious Kale Caesar Salad in a Jar with Parmesan Crisps. A perfect blend of textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup curly kale, stems removed and discarded
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 jar with a wide mouth (32 oz)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine kale, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into the prepared jar.
3. Top with crumbled bacon (if using) and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready to serve when you are.
Strawberry Arugula Salad in a Jar with Balsamic Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a snack on-the-go. Layered with sweet strawberries, peppery arugula, and tangy balsamic vinaigrette, this jarred salad is easy to prepare and takes only minutes to assemble.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh arugula
– 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions:
1. Layer the ingredients in a clean glass jar, starting with the arugula.
2. Add the sliced strawberries on top of the arugula.
3. If using, sprinkle feta cheese and chopped nuts over the strawberries.
4. Pour 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinaigrette over the salad.
5. Close the lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and enjoy.
BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad in a Jar
A classic chicken salad gets a delicious twist with the addition of BBQ sauce and creamy ranch dressing, all packed into a convenient jar for an easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup BBQ ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Layer the mixed greens, diced chicken, and croutons in a 2-cup mason jar.
2. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Pour in the BBQ ranch dressing.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembled salad
Summary
Discover 20 refreshing salad recipes to brighten up your busy days! From classic Greek and Caprese salads to unique twists like Thai Peanut Noodle and Mexican Street Corn, these jarred salads are perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. With flavors ranging from tangy Mediterranean Chickpea to sweet Strawberry Arugula, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creative and delicious recipes.