Select a wide-mouth Mason jar for easy filling and mixing. Quart-sized jars are ideal for full meal salads, while pint-sized jars work for side salads.
Pour 2-3 tablespoons of your favorite salad dressing into the bottom of the jar. This keeps the dressing separate from the other ingredients until you're ready to eat.
Layer sturdy vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes directly on top of the dressing. These veggies can withstand the dressing without becoming soggy.
Add a layer of protein such as grilled chicken, tofu, beans, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs. This makes your salad more satisfying and nutritious.
Include a layer of cooked grains like quinoa, brown rice, farro, or pasta. This adds texture and makes the salad more filling.
Fill the jar with your choice of greens like spinach, arugula, kale, or mixed salad greens. These should be added towards the top to stay fresh and crisp.
Sprinkle cheese such as crumbled feta, shredded cheddar, or Parmesan for extra flavor and richness.
Include nuts, seeds, croutons, or tortilla strips for a satisfying crunch. These should be added last to maintain their texture.
Secure the lid tightly and store the jar in the refrigerator. Mason jar salads can typically stay fresh for 3-5 days.
When ready to eat, shake the jar well to mix the dressing with all the ingredients. Pour into a bowl or eat directly from the jar for a convenient, healthy meal.