Meal prepping doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. One of the easiest and most practical ways to simplify your meals is by creating mason jar salads. These portioned salads are perfect for busy lifestyles, whether you’re a parent, professional, or just someone trying to eat healthier. Plus, they keep your ingredients fresh and your fridge organized while looking oh-so satisfying.
Today, we’re walking through the steps to create three delicious salads—an Olive Garden-inspired salad, an Asian-style salad, and a classic ranch salad. I’ll also share tips for keeping them fresh and customizing them to meet your needs.
Why Mason Jar Salads?
Mason jar salads are a great way to save time during the week. Everything is prepped in advance, and the layered design keeps the ingredients fresh until you’re ready to eat. Another bonus? They’re easy to grab, making them ideal for work lunches, quick dinners, or snacks on the go.
Pro Tips for Success
- Layer Smartly: The key to keeping salads fresh is in the layering. Start with the dressing at the bottom to prevent soggy greens, then layer in sturdier veggies, proteins, and finally, greens at the top.
- Leave Room on Top: Pack your jars tightly, but leave just enough space at the top to prevent squishing and to allow airflow.
- Paper Towel Trick: Add a small paper towel on top to absorb any moisture before sealing the jar.
Now, grab your jars and veggies—let’s get started!
Salad #1: Olive Garden-Inspired Salad
Who doesn’t love a crisp and flavorful Olive Garden salad? This version is loaded with veggies and topped with their signature dressing for a restaurant-quality salad at home.
Ingredients
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
- Red onions, thinly sliced
- Black olives
- Pepperoncini
- Croutons (store in a separate bag or add just before eating)
- Mixed salad greens
- Olive Garden Italian dressing
Assembly Instructions
- Start by layering your cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions at the bottom of the jar.
- Pour a few tablespoons of Olive Garden dressing over the veggies.
- Add pepperoncini and black olives.
- Optional: Include your choice of meat, such as shredded rotisserie chicken, to add protein.
- Pack in your salad greens, pushing down gently to fit as much as possible.
- Store croutons separately and sprinkle them on just before serving.
Salad #2: Asian-Style Salad
For something fresh and zesty, this Asian-inspired salad hits the spot. It’s full of vibrant veggies and topped with a homemade or store-bought dressing that adds a flavorful punch.
Ingredients
- Cucumbers
- Mandarin oranges
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onions
- Sliced almonds
- Grilled chicken strips or rotisserie chicken
- Mixed greens
- Asian sesame dressing (homemade or store-bought)
Assembly Instructions
- Layer cucumbers, mandarins, tomatoes, and red onions at the bottom of the jar.
- Add a few tablespoons of Asian sesame dressing.
- Place cooked chicken strips on top of the veggies.
- Sprinkle in sliced almonds.
- Finish with mixed greens on top.
With a soup on the side, like a frozen Japanese veggie or miso broth, this meal becomes even more satisfying!
Salad #3: Ranch Classic Salad
Sometimes, you just want something simple and comforting. This ranch salad is easy to make and packed with all the veggies you love.
Ingredients
- Cucumbers
- Carrots
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onions
- Grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken
- Croutons (stored separately)
- Mixed greens
- Ranch dressing
Assembly Instructions
- Layer cucumbers, carrots, cherry tomatoes, and red onions at the bottom of the jar.
- Pour in ranch dressing—don’t be like me and forget to do this first! Fixing it can get messy.
- Add cooked chicken for protein.
- Top with mixed greens, tightly packed in.
- Store croutons separately and add just before eating to keep them crunchy.
Pair this salad with a frozen vegetable beef soup for a hearty meal!
Extra Meal Prep Tips
Love variety? Try prepping soups alongside your salads! Freezing soups in silicone molds or ice cube trays makes portioning a breeze and adds a cozy side to your salads. For example, pair your Asian salad with a fresh broth-based veggie soup, or your ranch salad with a chunky stew. The possibilities are endless!
Why You’ll Love Mason Jar Salads
Not only are these salads easy to grab and go, but they’re also fully customizable to your preferences. Whether you love zesty, refreshing flavors or hearty, protein-packed meals, there’s a combination for everyone. They’re perfect for busy weeks when you want something healthy, delicious, and satisfying without much effort.
Final Thoughts
Mason jar salads are a game-changer for anyone trying to meal prep more efficiently. With simple layers and a touch of creativity, you can turn an ordinary salad into something fresh, flavorful, and fun. Try out these recipes, or get creative with your own combinations—you might find a new favorite!
Which mason jar salad will you try first? Share your ideas and prep tips in the comments below. Here’s to easy meal prepping and delicious, stress-free meals, Domestic Darlings!
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