Make-Ahead Spinach Salad in a Jar: The Ultimate Mason Jar Salad Recipe
If you’re searching for a convenient way to incorporate healthy eating into your busy week, look no further! The “Make-Ahead Spinach Salad in a Jar” is the perfect solution. Packed with fresh spinach, nutrient-dense quinoa, and flavorful ingredients, this Mason Jar Salad Recipe is here to simplify your meal prep routine while keeping your taste buds delighted.
Yield and Preparation Time
This recipe yields five servings, allowing you to indulge in a healthy salad every weekday. Prepare for a quick and easy assembly, with just 20 minutes dedicated to both prep and cooking time, leading to a total creation time of 40 minutes.
Ingredients for Make-Ahead Spinach Salad in a Jar
– 5 (16 oz) pint jars
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup quinoa
– 3 tablespoons fresh squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– ¼ teaspoon grated orange zest
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon curry powder
– ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ cup light olive oil
– ⅔ cup dried cherries
– ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
– 5 cups tightly packed fresh spinach
– 5 tablespoons chopped walnuts
How to Assemble Your Make-Ahead Spinach Salad in a Jar
Cooking the Quinoa
1. Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with two cups of water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
3. Remove from heat and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Let it cool completely before adding to the jars.
Preparing the Dressing
1. In a small bowl, whisk together fresh squeezed orange juice, white wine vinegar, grated orange zest, salt, curry powder, and black pepper.
2. Slowly drizzle in the light olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
Assembling the Mason Jar Salads
1. Begin with dividing the dressing equally among the five pint jars.
2. Layer the cooled quinoa on top of the dressing, ensuring it acts as a barrier to prevent the spinach from wilting.
3. Add a layer of dried cherries, followed by a layer of crumbled goat cheese.
4. Pack each jar tightly with fresh spinach to maintain freshness throughout the week.
5. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped walnuts on top. Securely tighten the lids and refrigerate the jars.
Health Benefits and Tips for Make-Ahead Spinach Salad in a Jar
Why This Salad is Nutritious
Firstly, spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, providing iron, vitamins A, C, and K, and essential antioxidants. It’s a staple for bone health and boosting your immune system. Secondly, quinoa offers a complete source of protein and supports digestive health with its high fiber content. The combination of colors and textures in this salad stimulates appetite, making it not only healthy but also satisfying.
Ensure Freshness and Nutritional Value
Layering the salad appropriately ensures that the ingredients maintain their freshness and texture. As the greens remain on top and away from the dressing, they don’t become soggy, maintaining the salad’s nutritional integrity.
FAQs on Mason Jar Salad Recipes
How Do Mason Jar Salads Last So Long in the Fridge?
Mason jar salads have become a trend because of their clever layering technique. By placing the dressing at the bottom and the greens at the top, it prevents the salad from becoming soggy. As a result, these salads can last up to five days in the refrigerator.
Try This Mason Jar Salad Recipe Today!
So, spice up your meal prep routine with this delightful Make-Ahead Spinach Salad in a Jar. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s a convenient and delicious way to stay healthy. In short, give it a try and revolutionize your lunch break with this nutrient-packed jar of goodness!
