11 Nutrient-Rich Back to School Salad Jars

healthy back to school meals

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad Jar

nutritious quinoa bean salad

The Quinoa and Black Bean Salad Jar is a nutritious and satisfying dish perfect for a quick lunch or snack during the busy school season. It features layers of protein-packed quinoa, black beans, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, all conveniently packed in a jar for easy transport and meal prep. This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal that keeps you energized throughout the day.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Black beans (canned, rinsed) 1 can (15 oz)
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Cucumber (diced) 1 medium
Bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Corn (canned or frozen) 1 cup
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh cilantro (chopped) ¼ cup

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and cook it in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and corn.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
  4. Start layering the ingredients in your jar, beginning with the dressing at the bottom, followed by quinoa, black beans, and then the fresh vegetables.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. Shake well before serving. Enjoy your nutritious and convenient meal!
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Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Jar

mediterranean chickpea salad jar

The Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Jar is a fresh and vibrant dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors. This nutritious salad is packed with protein-rich chickpeas, colorful vegetables, and a tangy dressing, all layered conveniently in a jar for easy meal prep. It’s perfect for a healthy lunch or snack on the go, ensuring you stay energized while balancing your busy school schedule.

Ingredients Quantity
Chickpeas (canned, rinsed) 1 can (15 oz)
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Cucumber (diced) 1 medium
Red onion (finely chopped) ¼ medium
Bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Kalamata olives (sliced) ½ cup
Feta cheese (crumbled) ½ cup
Fresh parsley (chopped) ¼ cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Oregano (dried) 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh parsley.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
  3. Start layering the ingredients in your jar, adding the dressing at the bottom, followed by chickpeas, vegetables, and finally feta cheese and parsley on top.
  4. Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for up to four days. Shake well before serving to mix the ingredients. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean meal!
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Rainbow Veggie and Hummus Salad Jar

colorful veggie salad jar

The Rainbow Veggie and Hummus Salad Jar is a vibrant, nutritious dish that brings an array of colorful vegetables together with creamy hummus, all neatly packed into a jar for an easy grab-and-go meal. This salad is not only visually appealing but also provides a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, making it perfect for a revitalizing lunch or snack during your busy school days.

Ingredients Quantity
Hummus ½ cup
Carrot (julienned) 1 medium
Cucumber (sliced) 1 medium
Bell pepper (sliced) 1 medium
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Radishes (sliced) ½ cup
Avocado (sliced) 1 medium
Spinach or mixed greens 1 cup
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. Start by spreading the hummus at the bottom of your jar.
  2. Layer the sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, carrots, radishes, and cherry tomatoes over the hummus in the jar.
  3. Add the avocado slices next, followed by a handful of spinach or mixed greens.
  4. Drizzle lemon juice on top and season with salt and pepper as desired.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate. Shake before serving to mix the ingredients. Enjoy your healthy and colorful Rainbow Veggie and Hummus Salad!
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Chicken Caesar Salad Jar

layered chicken caesar salad

The Chicken Caesar Salad Jar is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a classic Caesar salad while on the go. This jar features layers of crisp romaine lettuce, tender chicken, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing, all packed neatly for an easy, nutritious lunch or snack that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken breast (sliced) 1 cup
Romaine lettuce (chopped) 2 cups
Caesar dressing ¼ cup
Croutons ½ cup
Parmesan cheese (shredded) ¼ cup
Lemon wedges For garnish
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. Start by adding the Caesar dressing to the bottom of your jar.
  2. Layer the sliced cooked chicken on top of the dressing.
  3. Add the chopped romaine lettuce next, followed by the croutons and shredded Parmesan cheese.
  4. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate. Shake before serving and enjoy with a lemon wedge for an extra zing!
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Thai Peanut Noodle Salad Jar

thai peanut noodle salad

The Thai Peanut Noodle Salad Jar is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the delectable tastes of Thai cuisine with fresh vegetables and hearty noodles. Perfect for lunch on the go, this salad offers a revitalizing crunch along with a creamy peanut sauce that elevates the meal to new heights. Packed in a jar, it’s not only convenient but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to your back-to-school meal prep.

Ingredients Quantity
Rice noodles 2 cups
Red bell pepper (julienned) 1 cup
Carrots (shredded) 1 cup
Cucumber (sliced) 1 cup
Green onions (sliced) ½ cup
Fresh cilantro (chopped) ¼ cup
Peanut butter ¼ cup
Soy sauce 2 tablespoons
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Honey or agave syrup 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Crushed peanuts For garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and salt to create the dressing.
  3. In your jar, layer the peanut sauce at the bottom, followed by rice noodles, then add the red bell pepper, carrots, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.
  4. Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for garnish.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate. Shake well before serving to mix the flavors. Enjoy!
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Caprese Salad Jar With Mozzarella and Pesto

caprese salad jar recipe

The Caprese Salad Jar with Mozzarella and Pesto is a fresh and delicious twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. This portable version layers juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil pesto, making it an ideal option for a quick lunch or snack on the go. Each jar is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors that evoke the essence of summer.

Ingredients Quantity
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 2 cups
Fresh mozzarella balls 1 cup
Fresh basil leaves 1 cup
Pesto sauce ¼ cup
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. Start by preparing your ingredients: halve the cherry tomatoes, and if using large mozzarella balls, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a jar, layer the pesto sauce at the bottom for flavor, followed by a layer of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves.
  3. Drizzle balsamic vinegar and olive oil on top, then season with salt and pepper.
  4. Seal the jar tightly and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Shake gently before enjoying to mix the flavors.
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Taco Salad Jar With Ground Turkey

taco salad jar recipe

The Taco Salad Jar with Ground Turkey is a flavorful and nutritious meal prep option that brings the bold flavors of a classic taco into a convenient and portable jar. Perfect for lunches or quick dinners, this colorful salad jar layers seasoned ground turkey, crisp lettuce, zesty tomatoes, and creamy avocado, ensuring every bite is packed with taste. It’s a fun twist on the traditional taco that everyone will love!

Ingredients Quantity
Ground turkey 1 pound
Taco seasoning 2 tablespoons
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Shredded lettuce 2 cups
Black beans (drained and rinsed) 1 cup
Corn (canned or frozen) 1 cup
Avocado (diced) 1
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) 1 cup
Salsa ½ cup
Cilantro (chopped) ¼ cup
Lime juice 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water; cook until heated through.
  2. In a clean jar, begin with a layer of salsa at the bottom to keep the ingredients fresh.
  3. Layer ground turkey, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, shredded lettuce, and shredded cheese, in that order.
  4. Top with chopped cilantro, a drizzle of lime juice, and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Shake gently before eating to mix the ingredients.
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Spinach and Strawberry Salad Jar

nutritious spinach strawberry salad

The Spinach and Strawberry Salad Jar is a delightful and invigorating meal prep option that combines the earthiness of fresh spinach with the sweetness of juicy strawberries. It’s a vibrant salad that is easy to assemble and makes for a perfect lunch or snack on the go. Packed with nutrients and topped with a light vinaigrette, this salad jar is as nutritious as it is delicious!

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach 3 cups
Strawberries (sliced) 1 cup
Goat cheese (crumbled) ½ cup
Almonds (slivered or chopped) ¼ cup
Red onion (thinly sliced) ¼ cup
Balsamic vinaigrette ½ cup
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. In a clean jar, pour the balsamic vinaigrette at the bottom.
  2. Layer in the following order: sliced red onion, fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and slivered almonds.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Seal the jar tightly and store in the refrigerator. Shake gently before eating to enjoy the flavors combined.
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Greek Yogurt and Berry Parfait Jar

berry yogurt parfait recipe

The Greek Yogurt and Berry Parfait Jar is a delicious and nutritious meal prep option that serves as an excellent breakfast or snack. This parfait layers creamy Greek yogurt with a medley of fresh berries, providing a satisfying balance of protein and antioxidants. It’s easy to assemble in jars, making it perfect for busy mornings or as a wholesome treat throughout the day.

Ingredients Quantity
Greek yogurt 2 cups
Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) 2 cups
Honey or maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Granola 1 cup
Chia seeds 2 tablespoons
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon

Instructions:

  1. Begin by adding a layer of Greek yogurt to the bottom of a clean jar.
  2. Follow with a layer of your mixed berries, then drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
  3. Add a layer of granola followed by a sprinkle of chia seeds.
  4. Repeat the layers until the jar is full, finishing with a layer of berries on top.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Enjoy chilled as a quick breakfast or snack!
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Southwest Couscous Salad Jar

southwest couscous salad jar

The Southwest Couscous Salad Jar is a vibrant and hearty dish that’s perfect for meal prep or packed lunches. It features fluffy couscous paired with black beans, corn, peppers, and a zesty lime dressing, making it a nutritious choice that bursts with flavor. This salad jar can be customized to your liking and is sure to keep you satisfied throughout your busy day.

Ingredients Quantity
Couscous 1 cup
Vegetable broth or water 1 1/4 cups
Black beans (canned, rinsed) 1 can (15 oz)
Corn (canned or frozen) 1 cup
Bell pepper (diced) 1 large
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Avocado (diced) 1 medium
Fresh cilantro (chopped) 1/4 cup
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper To taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the couscous according to package instructions using vegetable broth or water.
  2. In a bowl, combine cooked couscous with black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped avocado.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad mixture and stir to combine.
  4. Layer the ingredients in a clean jar, starting with the couscous mixture and finishing with avocado and cilantro on top.
  5. Seal tightly and refrigerate until ready to enjoy as a revitalizing lunch or light dinner.

Apple and Cheddar Chicken Salad Jar

apple cheddar chicken salad

The Apple and Cheddar Chicken Salad Jar is a fresh and satisfying dish that combines tender grilled chicken, crisp apples, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with protein and nutrients to fuel your day.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken breast (diced) 1 cup
Cheddar cheese (shredded) 1/2 cup
Apple (diced, tart variety) 1 medium
Celery (diced) 1/2 cup
Greek yogurt 1/4 cup
Mayonnaise 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt and pepper To taste
Salad greens (for layering) 2 cups

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine diced cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, diced apple, and diced celery.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Add the dressing to the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
  4. Layer the ingredients in a jar, starting with the salad greens at the bottom, followed by the chicken salad mixture on top.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy a crunchy and flavorful meal.

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.