Mason Jar Salad Lunches

I think the most obvious thing I have learned since becoming a mom is that everything takes longer than it used to.  EVERYTHING.  A simple trip to the bathroom now turns into me begging whichever child to let me have 90 seconds alone in the bathroom.  I somehow never win this battle and end up with one, sometimes two, kids joining me.

I used to be one of the first people to show up for work in the morning.  Used to be.  Now I feel lucky if I am not the last person in the office!  I am fortunate that my office has a nice cafeteria. The good comes with the bad since I fall back on this option way too many times.  Sure it is convenient but that comes at a cost and also usually ends up with me eating a not as healthy as a lunch as I would have brought from home.  Since this is of my greatest working mom tricks I thought it was only appropriate to share this right away.

Mason Jar Salads.  They are a life saver.  I make them on Sunday and they last all week.  That means in the morning when I am struggling to get out the door with two kids I know simply grab a jar from the refrigerator and I have a lunch that is ready to go.  That is it.  These are so versatile.  You can put whatever you want in these - layering is the key.  I will usually try to make my own dressing but that certainly isn't necessary.

Tips for Successful Mason Jars Salads

Proper layering is the key to successfully making mason jar salads.  The last thing you want is soggy spinach (or whatever green you choose to use).  I was very skeptical at first but now rely on these for quick lunches.

Jars:  First things first.  Make sure you have the appropriate sized jar.  I use a pint and a half size mason jars and feel this is a perfect size for lunch.  You can find these at many stores in the food storage section or purchase from Amazon.  You can also use pint sized for side salads or a quart size if you are really hungry!

Layer 1: Dressing

• I use approximately 2 tablespoons of dressing per jar.  It is important that the dressing goes on the bottom.  Again, you can use any type of dressing that you like.  I prefer homemade but store bought are great too and even make these easier!

Layer 2: Hearty Vegetables

• Here is where you want to add in your hearty vegetables that can handle sitting in dressing for a few days.  If you are adding beans (chickpea, black, kidney - anything goes!) or tofu now is your time to add it.  This allows them to soak in the dressing and really take in the flavor
• Some vegetables I like to add are carrots, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, zucchini, broccoli, cauliflower, green onions, red onion and peas.  Layer them so the heartiest are on the bottom.

Layer 3:  Proteins

• Here is where you will add most proteins.  As mentioned above, if you are adding beans or tofu I recommend adding to the dressing to absorb the flavor.   Other proteins that go well are chicken, turkey, tuna, salmon or quinoa. 

Layer 4:  Delicates

• This is where I add avocado or hard-boiled egg.  If you are adding avocado I recommend first squeezing some lemon or lime juice to keep it from browning.  I have added avocado to the jars  and it makes it 4-5 days (with very slight browning) but if you are leery you can always pack on the side.  Sprouts are also good additions here.

Layer 5:  The Greens!

• Pack those greens in!  I primary use spinach, and a lot of it with some kale, but you can substitute or use any combination you like:  Iceberg, romaine, spinach, kale, cabbage, spring mix, etc. are all good choices.

That's it.  Now put them in the fridge and grab one each morning for a quick, healthy and delicious meal.  When it is time to eat, simply turn over for a few minutes to let dressing mix in and pour onto a plate.

I will certainly be sharing my favorite go-to mason jar recipes as well as new ones that I come up with as I experiment with new ingredients and combinations.  Make sure to follow me on Facebook so you have access to the newest Mason Jar Recipe!

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What is your go-to ingredient for mason jar salads?  I would love to incorporate it into a fun, new creative recipe!