Are you ready to elevate your lunch game with a burst of vibrant flavors and textures? Introducing "Crunch Crunch: A Week of Make Ahead Spring Salads in Jars" – the perfect solution for busy individuals seeking a nutritious and delicious meal on the go! With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up five delightful salads that are not only visually stunning but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Say goodbye to boring lunches and hello to a week of freshness that will keep you energized and satisfied. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to create these colorful jars of goodness that are as convenient as they are tasty!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 5 servings
Ingredients
- 5 jars with lids
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked
- 1 cup chopped kale
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chickpeas, drained
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables thoroughly. Ensure chickpeas are drained and patted dry.
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, let it cool completely to room temperature, spreading on a flat surface to release steam and prevent clumping.
- Massage chopped kale with a small amount of olive oil to soften the leaves and reduce bitterness. Set aside.
- Layer ingredients in clean, wide-mouth mason jars in the following order from bottom to top: - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette - Diced cucumber - Shredded carrots - Drained chickpeas - Cooked quinoa - Massaged kale - Crumbled feta cheese on top
- Seal jars tightly with lids and store in refrigerator. These salads will keep fresh for up to 5 days.
- When ready to eat, shake jar vigorously to distribute dressing, then pour into a bowl or eat directly from jar.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time during the week, consider prepping all your ingredients in advance. Chop your vegetables and cook the quinoa the night before so you can assemble the jars quickly in the morning.
- Layering is Key: To keep your salads fresh, layer the ingredients wisely! Start with the dressing at the bottom to prevent sogginess, followed by sturdier vegetables like cucumbers and carrots, and finish with delicate ingredients like feta cheese and kale.
- Customize Your Salads: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences! Swap out chickpeas for black beans or add in some cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
- Storage Matters: Use wide-mouth mason jars for easy access and to ensure that all ingredients fit comfortably. Seal them tightly to maintain freshness for up to five days in the refrigerator.
- Shake It Up: When you're ready to enjoy your salad, give the jar a good shake to mix the dressing with the ingredients. You can either pour it into a bowl or eat straight from the jar for a convenient meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
