This Red, White, and Blue Mason Jar Salad is a perfect way to bring together fresh ingredients for a light, healthy, and visually stunning dish. The sweet strawberries and blueberries contrast beautifully with the salty feta and the crisp mixed greens, while the honey-balsamic dressing adds just the right touch of sweetness and tang.
Perfect for a summer gathering, picnic, or as a colorful side dish, this salad brings together fresh flavors that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. The mason jar presentation not only makes it easy to serve but also keeps everything fresh and crisp until it’s time to enjoy. It’s the ideal salad for any occasion that calls for something quick, healthy, and festive!
Full Recipe:
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1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
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1 cup blueberries
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1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
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2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach and arugula)
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1/4 cup balsamic glaze
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1/4 cup olive oil
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1 tablespoon honey
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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In a mason jar, layer the salad ingredients starting with the balsamic glaze at the bottom.
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Add a layer of feta cheese, followed by the strawberries, blueberries, and mixed greens.
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
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Seal the mason jar and refrigerate until ready to serve. Shake gently to mix the ingredients before enjoying.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Perfect Salad for All Occasions
This Red, White, and Blue Mason Jar Salad is not just about the aesthetic appeal—it’s also about versatility and ease of preparation. The jar presentation allows for individual servings, making it ideal for family gatherings, BBQs, picnics, and even as a gift for friends or colleagues. Its portioned nature allows everyone to enjoy a fresh, perfectly balanced serving without the need for plating or extra mess.
Mason Jar Benefits:
Mason jars have become a popular choice for both practical and decorative purposes. Beyond their vintage charm, they help keep the ingredients intact and fresh. Because the ingredients are layered in jars, the dressing doesn’t touch the greens until you’re ready to eat. This ensures the greens stay crisp and vibrant, while the other ingredients like berries, cheese, and nuts stay intact. Not only is this great for serving at gatherings, but it’s also ideal for meal prep or storing leftovers in the fridge.
A Feast for the Eyes and the Stomach
The stunning layers of red, white, and blue create an inviting visual, making this salad ideal for special occasions such as Independence Day, Memorial Day, or even a summer birthday. It’s perfect for those who want a dish that’s both nutritious and photogenic. The mason jar’s transparent sides showcase the beautiful array of colors, ensuring that it stands out among other dishes at any event.
Presentation Tip:
To take the visual appeal up a notch, consider adding edible flowers like pansies or violets, which can complement the colors and make the salad even more beautiful. This little touch will make your salad look like a showstopper on any table.
An Easy Recipe for Busy Lifestyles
What makes this recipe especially convenient is how quick and easy it is to make. In just 15 minutes, you can have a fresh, healthy salad ready to go, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal or as a side dish to accompany a grilled dinner. The best part? There’s no cooking required, so it’s an excellent option for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the stove or oven.
Meal Prep-Friendly:
The mason jar salad is ideal for meal prepping. Since the salad ingredients are layered and sealed in the jar, it stays fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge, making it perfect for grabbing on-the-go. You can also customize each jar to fit different dietary needs, whether that’s adding a protein like grilled chicken or making it vegan by omitting the feta.
Customizing the Dressing
One of the most exciting aspects of this salad is the dressing, which can easily be tailored to suit different tastes. The combination of balsamic glaze, honey, olive oil, and seasoning creates a balanced, sweet-and-tangy flavor. However, feel free to experiment with other types of dressing based on your preferences.
For example, if you prefer a more tangy flavor, you can substitute the balsamic glaze with a lemon vinaigrette or even a creamy yogurt dressing. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing will give it an interesting kick. Alternatively, you can skip the sweetness altogether and opt for a more savory dressing made with mustard or garlic.
Alternative Dressings:
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Lemon Vinaigrette: Use lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper for a zesty, refreshing dressing.
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Honey Mustard Dressing: Mix honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy and sweet alternative.
Ideal for Various Dietary Preferences
This Red, White, and Blue Mason Jar Salad can be easily modified to fit a wide range of dietary needs. Whether you’re following a gluten-free, vegetarian, or even a dairy-free lifestyle, this dish can be made to cater to your requirements.
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Vegetarian: This salad is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat. If you’re looking for a more substantial option, consider adding chickpeas or roasted tofu for added protein.
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Dairy-Free: If you’re avoiding dairy, simply swap out the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative or leave it out entirely. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
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Vegan: To make the salad completely vegan, just omit the feta cheese and opt for a vegan-friendly dressing.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
Each ingredient in this salad brings unique health benefits that enhance the overall nutritional value of the dish.
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Berries (Strawberries & Blueberries): Packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and flavonoids, berries help fight inflammation and support immune health. They’re also low in calories and rich in fiber, making them a perfect addition to a weight-loss-friendly diet.
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Mixed Greens (Spinach & Arugula): These leafy greens are packed with vitamins, including A, K, and C, and are excellent sources of iron and calcium. They also contain antioxidants that promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
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Feta Cheese: While feta adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the salad, it’s also a good source of calcium and protein, which are essential for strong bones and muscle function. It’s lower in fat compared to many other cheeses, making it a lighter option.
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Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which promote heart health and can help reduce the risk of stroke. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and is known to aid in digestion.
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Honey: Honey is a natural sweetener with antioxidant properties. It provides a quick source of energy and can help with digestion and soothing sore throats.
Conclusion: A Versatile, Vibrant Salad for Any Gathering
This Red, White, and Blue Mason Jar Salad is a delightful combination of vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors that makes it the perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Its easy preparation, customizable nature, and health benefits make it a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a light, nutritious, and festive dish.
Whether you’re preparing it for a summer BBQ, a patriotic holiday, or just to enjoy a refreshing meal at home, this salad is sure to impress. With its ability to be made ahead of time and the potential to modify the ingredients to suit any dietary need, this recipe is a keeper. So, get creative, make it your own, and enjoy the burst of flavors that this simple yet stunning salad has to offer.