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Introduction
There's something incredibly satisfying about preparing and storing meals in mason jars. They not only offer an easy way to preserve food but also provide a charming and functional storage solution. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or creating a gift for a loved one, making mason jar recipes is both convenient and delightful. We make at least six mason jars worth of this stuff! It's a perfect batch to share, save, and enjoy over time. In this guide, we'll share some of the best ingredients, directions, and tips to make your mason jar creations a hit every time.
Ingredients:
2 cups of cooked quinoa (or rice for a different twist)
1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup of chopped cucumbers
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup of shredded carrots
1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley, cilantro)
1/2 cup of hummus or tahini dressing for added flavor
Directions:
Prepare the Base: Start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely before using. If using rice, follow the same process.
Layer the Mason Jars: Begin layering your ingredients in mason jars for easy storage and portability. First, add a spoonful of quinoa to each jar as the base.
Add Vegetables: Next, layer in the chickpeas, followed by cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, and red onions. Make sure each layer is evenly distributed for flavor balance.
Seasoning: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the top. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also drizzle a bit of hummus or tahini dressing for extra creaminess and flavor.
Seal and Store: After assembling, seal the mason jars tightly with their lids. If you're preparing multiple jars, make sure they are securely closed to preserve the freshness of your ingredients.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Storage: Store the mason jars in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Since the ingredients are stored separately in layers, they maintain their freshness and flavor longer.
Serving: When you're ready to serve, simply shake up the mason jar to mix the ingredients or pour everything into a bowl. If you like your salad a bit more savory, add a little extra dressing or sprinkle some seeds on top for crunch.
Variations:<!--nextpage-->
Add Protein: To make it more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or a hard-boiled egg for a protein-packed meal.
Switch Up the Grains: Experiment with different grains such as farro, barley, or couscous for a variation in texture and flavor.
Spicy Twist: If you love spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to kick up the heat.
Add Cheese: A handful of crumbled feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar can add a creamy, salty flavor to the mason jars.
FAQ:
Q: Can I prepare these mason jars in advance? A: Yes! In fact, mason jar meals are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare them up to 4-5 days in advance and store them in the fridge. The layers will stay fresh, and you’ll have a ready-to-go meal whenever you need it.
Q: How do I make the salad dressing for the jars? A: You can easily make a simple dressing with olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey. Just shake it up in a small jar and pour it over the layers before sealing. If you prefer creamy dressings, tahini or yogurt-based dressings work great!
Q: Can I freeze mason jar meals? A: While it’s not recommended to freeze salads with fresh veggies and grains, some cooked ingredients like beans or roasted veggies can be frozen in jars. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion when freezing.
Q: What other ingredients can I use in my mason jars? A: The beauty of mason jar recipes is their versatility. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding roasted sweet potatoes, chickpea pasta, or seasonal fruits for a fun twist!
Now, you're all set to start making these mason jar meals that are as practical as they are delicious. Enjoy!
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