As we dive into the warmer months, it’s only natural to crave lighter, brighter, and more refreshing meals. One of our favorite ways to do just that is by whipping up a delicious mason jar salad. Not only are these salads easy to prepare, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering mason jar salad recipes that are perfect for busy days when you need a quick and healthy meal option. From classic combinations like Greek feta and olives to more adventurous pairings like Thai peanut and buffalo chicken, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for a light and crunchy snack or a satisfying lunch that’s packed with nutrients, these recipes are sure to hit the spot. So grab your mason jars and let’s get started!
Greek Mason Jar Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, packed into a charming mason jar. With the tangy feta cheese, briny olives, and crunchy cucumber, this salad is a delightful twist on traditional Greek cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the cucumber slices in a 16-ounce mason jar.
2. Add the olives, feta cheese, and parsley on top of the cucumber.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and vinegar over the ingredients.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Southwest Black Bean Mason Jar Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Southwest with the convenience of a mason jar. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Crushed tortilla chips or croutons for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mason jar, add the cooked black beans, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze lime juice over the top.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Layer the mixed greens on top of the vegetables.
5. Garnish with crushed tortilla chips or croutons, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Asian Sesame Mason Jar Salad with Chicken
This Asian-inspired salad combines the flavors of sesame, soy sauce, and ginger with tender chicken and crunchy vegetables, all packed into a charming mason jar. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, and honey.
2. In the bottom of a mason jar, layer mixed greens, chicken, bell peppers, and carrots.
3. Drizzle the sesame dressing over the ingredients.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
5. Garnish with green onions.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes cooking chicken)
Caprese Mason Jar Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing Caprese salad gets a twist by layering fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil in a mason jar, topped with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 mason jars with lids
Instructions:
1. Layer the ingredients in the mason jar in this order: tomato, mozzarella, basil.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the layers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar and balsamic glaze until smooth.
4. Pour the glaze mixture over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (assembly time)
Quinoa and Kale Mason Jar Salad
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, all in a convenient and portable mason jar salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, kale leaves, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pack the salad into a mason jar or container for transport.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (cooking quinoa)
Cobb Mason Jar Salad with Avocado and Bacon
This salad combines the best of both worlds – the creamy richness of avocado, the smoky flavor of bacon, and the classic Cobb salad’s perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 large avocado, diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (or feta)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the ingredients in a large Mason jar or container, starting with the mixed greens.
2. Add the diced avocado, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and parsley.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Mediterranean Chickpea Mason Jar Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of a mason jar.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the ingredients in a 16-oz mason jar in the following order:
– Add the chickpeas, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
– Pour the olive oil and lemon juice over the top.
2. Close the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( prep time only)
Spinach and Strawberry Mason Jar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing combination of sweet strawberries and nutritious spinach, perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the spinach leaves in a clean mason jar, leaving about an inch at the top.
2. Add sliced strawberries on top of the spinach.
3. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese (if using) and chopped nuts over the strawberries.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None
Taco Mason Jar Salad with Lime Dressing
Add a twist to the classic salad by incorporating the flavors of tacos into this refreshing Mason jar salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cooked ground beef or beans (optional)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup diced red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Mason jar, layer the mixed greens, ground beef or beans (if using), diced tomatoes, red bell peppers, and cilantro.
2. Top with crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil to create the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mason Jar Salad
Spice up your lunch routine with this creamy, tangy, and refreshing salad that combines the flavors of buffalo chicken, crunchy greens, and a hint of blue cheese crumbles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 Mason jar lids
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing until smooth.
2. Layer ingredients in order: lettuce, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, and buffalo chicken mixture.
3. Top with cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep only)
Thai Peanut Mason Jar Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the crunch of fresh vegetables and crunchy noodles, all packed into a charming mason jar. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons peanut sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup mung bean noodles
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut sauce and soy sauce.
2. Layer the mixed greens, chicken, peanuts, bell pepper, and carrots in a 16-oz mason jar.
3. Pour the peanut-soy sauce mixture over the vegetables.
4. Top with mung bean noodles.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Beet and Goat Cheese Mason Jar Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all nestled in a charming mason jar.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Layer the mason jar with the roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (roasting time) + assembly time
Caesar Mason Jar Salad with Croutons
Elevate your salad game with this creative twist on the classic Caesar salad! Layered ingredients and crunchy croutons make for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought croutons (see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Crouton Recipe:
– 1/2 loaf of Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Start by layering the chopped lettuce in a large mason jar.
2. Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of Caesar dressing over the lettuce.
3. Add crumbled Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Sprinkle homemade or store-bought croutons over the cheese.
5. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 10 minutes.
BBQ Ranch Mason Jar Salad with Corn
Elevate your lunch game with this refreshing and flavorful BBQ Ranch Mason Jar Salad, featuring the sweetness of corn on the cob. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked corn kernels
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mason jar, combine corn kernels, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, cilantro, feta cheese (if using), and red bell pepper.
2. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Mason Jar Salad
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful salad featuring succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and aromatic garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Place the mixed greens in the bottom of a 16 oz mason jar.
5. Arrange the cherry tomatoes on top of the greens.
6. Add the marinated shrimp on top of the tomatoes.
7. Sprinkle with parsley, feta cheese (if using), and salt to taste.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pesto Pasta Mason Jar Salad
A twist on traditional pasta salad, this Pesto Pasta Mason Jar Salad is a refreshing and flavorful option for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of creamy pesto sauce, al dente pasta, and crunchy vegetables makes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. mason jar
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 tbsp. pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Layer the mason jar with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and parsley.
4. Pour the pesto sauce over the top layer.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (cooking pasta) + 30 minutes (chilling)
Mango and Avocado Mason Jar Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, featuring the creamy texture of avocado and the juicy sweetness of mango. Layered with crispy tortilla strips and a tangy dressing, this mason jar salad is a healthy and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup crispy tortilla strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the mixed greens at the bottom of a mason jar.
2. Add the diced mango on top of the greens.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the mango.
4. Add the diced avocado on top of the cheese.
5. Drizzle the olive oil and lime juice over the salad.
6. Top with crispy tortilla strips.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Waldorf Chicken Mason Jar Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of juicy chicken, crunchy apples, and tangy Waldorf dressing in a convenient mason jar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons Waldorf salad dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Waldorf dressing and olive oil.
2. Add the mixed greens to the mason jar, followed by the diced chicken, apple, and walnuts.
3. Pour the dressing mixture over the ingredients in the jar.
4. Close the lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional chopped walnuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Chef’s Salad Mason Jar with Ham and Cheese
A refreshing twist on the classic chef’s salad, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. Layered ingredients create a visually appealing dish that’s also packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 mason jar
– 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped romaine lettuce
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Start by layering the mason jar with the ham, then the cheese.
2. Add a layer of romaine lettuce on top of the cheese.
3. Next, add the cherry tomatoes, followed by a dollop of mayonnaise.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with the ham on top.
6. Serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Kale and Brussels Sprout Mason Jar Salad
Get creative with this colorful salad that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of kale and Brussels sprouts with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the kale with your hands for about 2 minutes to soften the leaves.
2. Add the Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss to combine with the kale.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the kale mixture and toss to coat.
5. Divide the salad among four mason jars or containers.
6. Top each jar with crumbled goat cheese, if using.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Summary
Get ready to refresh your salad game! In this article, we present 20 delicious mason jar salad recipes perfect for busy days. From classic Greek and Caprese salads to international twists like Asian Sesame and Thai Peanut, there’s something for everyone. Quinoa and kale, buffalo chicken, Mediterranean chickpea, and more – each recipe is carefully crafted with fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a busy bee, these mason jar salads are quick, tasty, and healthy, making them the perfect solution for your lunchtime woes.
Leave a Reply