Are you tired of the same old lunch routine? Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to the vibrant, delicious world of Salad Jars! These layered wonders are not only visually appealing but also packed with fresh ingredients that will keep your taste buds dancing. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a week's worth of nutritious lunches that are ready to grab and go. Whether you're a busy student or a working professional, these Salad Jars are the perfect solution to elevate your lunchtime game. Ready to impress your friends and simplify your meal prep? Read on for the ultimate guide to creating your own Salad Jars!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 jars with lids
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cooked protein (chicken, beans, etc.)
- 1/4 cup dressing of choice
Instructions
- Wash all fresh vegetables thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Prepare the protein by cooking chicken or beans until fully cooked and cooled to room temperature. If using pre-cooked protein, ensure it's chilled.
- Chop cucumber into small, uniform dice approximately 1/4 inch in size.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes carefully, ensuring even cut sizes.
- Begin layering ingredients in the mason jars, starting with the dressing at the bottom to prevent soggy greens.
- Pour 2-3 tablespoons of dressing into the bottom of each jar.
- Add shredded carrots as the next layer, creating a barrier between dressing and other ingredients.
- Layer diced cucumber on top of carrots.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes as the next layer.
- Place cooked protein on top of tomatoes.
- Fill the remaining space with mixed greens, pressing gently to maximize jar capacity.
- Securely close jar lids and refrigerate until ready to eat.
- When ready to consume, shake jar to distribute dressing, then pour into a bowl or eat directly from jar.
Tips
- Choose the Right Jar: Opt for wide-mouth mason jars to make layering easier and to ensure you can reach all the delicious ingredients when it's time to eat.
- Layer Strategically: Always start with the dressing at the bottom to keep your greens fresh and crisp. Follow with heartier ingredients like carrots and cucumbers to create barriers that prevent sogginess.
- Prep Ahead: Make a batch of these jars on the weekend to save time during your busy week. They can last in the fridge for up to five days, making them a perfect meal prep option.
- Mix and Match: Feel free to customize your Salad Jars with your favorite proteins, vegetables, and dressings. Experiment with different combinations to keep your lunches exciting!
- Shake It Up: When you're ready to eat, give the jar a good shake to distribute the dressing evenly. You can either pour it into a bowl or enjoy it straight from the jar for a convenient meal on the go.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 55mg
