Mason jar salads are a healthy, easy-to-prepare option for busy people on-the-go. They can be made in advance and stay fresh for up to five days. The basic recipe requires a combination of leafy greens, chopped vegetables, protein, beans, fruit, and seeds or nuts. To start, layer the dressing followed by the hard vegetables, protein, beans, fruit, and finally, the leafy greens on top. Shake and enjoy straight from the jar or pour onto a plate. The Southwest Mason Jar Salad is a popular choice, featuring Southwest dressing, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and Romaine lettuce.

Mason Jar Salad Ideas: Easy and Healthy Lunches for Busy Days

Introduction

As busy individuals, we often overlook the importance of a nutritious and fulfilling lunch. Instead, we opt for quick and easy options that are often high in calories and unhealthy. Mason jar salads are the perfect solution for those who want a healthy lunch that is easy to prepare and can be taken on the go. The best part? The salad stays fresh for days, so you can prepare them in advance!

In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide and recipe for making mason jar salads.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

The first step to making a mason jar salad is gathering your ingredients. The recipe below is just one example. Feel free to use your favorite vegetables, fruits, and dressing.

For a basic salad, you will need:

• 1-2 cups of leafy greens
• 1-2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes)
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup of protein (such as grilled chicken or tofu)
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup of beans (such as chickpeas or black beans)
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup of fruit (such as strawberries or blueberries)
• 1-2 tablespoons of nuts or seeds (such as almonds or sunflower seeds)

Step 2: Layer Your Ingredients

Once you have gathered your ingredients, it’s time to start layering your mason jar salad. Follow these steps:

1. Start with the dressing. Add 2-4 tablespoons of your favorite dressing at the bottom of your jar.
2. Add your hard vegetables. These are vegetables that can withstand the dressing and won’t get soggy. Examples include carrots, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Add your protein. This can be grilled chicken, tofu or any other protein of your choice.
4. Add your beans. Chickpeas or black beans are great options.
5. Next, add your fruit. Strawberries or blueberries work well in salads.
6. Finally, add your leafy greens. This will be the top layer of your salad.
7. Seal the jar and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Step 3: Shake and Enjoy

When you are ready to enjoy your mason jar salad, simply shake the jar to distribute the dressing and enjoy straight from the jar or pour onto a plate.

Recipe: Southwest Mason Jar Salad

Here’s a recipe for a Southwest-inspired mason jar salad:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of Southwest dressing
• 1/2 cup of black beans
• 1/2 cup of corn
• 1/4 cup of cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup of red onion, chopped
• 1/2 avocado, diced
• 2 cups of chopped Romaine lettuce

Instructions:

1. Add the Southwest dressing to the bottom of the mason jar.
2. Add the black beans and corn.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and red onion.
4. Add the diced avocado.
5. Add the Romaine lettuce and seal the jar.
6. When ready to eat, shake the jar to distribute the dressing and enjoy.

Conclusion

Mason jar salads are a great way to enjoy a healthy lunch on busy days. They are easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and are incredibly versatile. Follow the steps and recipe above to create your own delicious and nutritious mason jar salads.