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In today’s fast-paced world, meal prepping has emerged as a practical solution to maintaining a healthy diet. With busy schedules often leaving little time for cooking, the concept of salad jars has gained immense popularity. These colorful, portable meals not only make healthy eating convenient but also add a touch of creativity to meal planning. Among the myriad of options available, Vibrant Rainbow Salad Jars stand out as a delightful choice, bursting with both flavor and nutrition.

Salad Jars

Discover the joy of meal prepping with Vibrant Rainbow Salad Jars! These colorful jars are not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrition and flavor. Featuring layers of fresh vegetables, wholesome quinoa, and a zesty dressing, they offer a balanced meal that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles. Customize your jars to suit your tastes and enjoy a delicious and nutritious option for work, picnics, or gatherings. Embrace creativity while nourishing your body!

Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained

2 cups water or vegetable broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup shredded carrots

1 cup red cabbage, shredded

1 avocado, diced

1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Salt and pepper, to taste

Lemon juice, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa appears fluffy. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Tweak the seasoning according to your personal taste preferences.

      Layer the Ingredients: Gather 4 mason jars (16 oz size works well). Begin assembling your salad layers by placing the heavier ingredients at the bottom and the lighter ones on top to ensure a visually appealing presentation:

        - 1st Layer: Pour 2-3 tablespoons of the dressing into the bottom of each jar.

          - 2nd Layer: Spoon in 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa, spreading it evenly.

            - 3rd Layer: Add 1/3 cup of halved cherry tomatoes on top of the quinoa.

              - 4th Layer: Next, place 1/3 cup of diced red bell pepper.

                - 5th Layer: Follow with 1/3 cup of diced cucumber.

                  - 6th Layer: Add 1/3 cup of shredded carrots for a bit of crunch.

                    - 7th Layer: Layer in 1/3 cup of shredded red cabbage for a pop of color.

                      - 8th Layer: Gently add 1/3 cup of rinsed black beans.

                        - 9th Layer: Top with 1/2 of the diced avocado.

                          - 10th Layer: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if desired.

                            Seal and Store: Securely fasten the lids on your jars and store them in the refrigerator. These beautiful salad jars can be enjoyed for up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep!

                              To Serve: When you're ready to indulge, simply give each jar a good shake to evenly distribute the dressing, then enjoy your vibrant layered salad straight from the jar, or pour it into a bowl for an elegant presentation!

                                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 servings