I’ve recently fallen in love with Greek chickpea mason jar salad. It’s vibrant, tasty, and effortlessly simple to put together — the perfect dish for lunch prep or a fresh, light dinner. Just imagine pulling a jar out of the fridge, shaking it up, and digging into a delicious, nutrition-packed meal.
What makes this salad special is the combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the cucumber and lettuce, plus the tang of feta and a delightful vinaigrette. Whether you’re someone who enjoys meal prepping or just loves a quick, healthy snack, this salad satisfies every craving.
Why you’ll love greek chickpea mason jar salad
- Fast and easy to prepare, only minutes needed.
- Flavorful combination of textures and tastes.
- Great make-ahead option; it keeps well in the fridge.
- Minimal dishes required, easy cleanup.
- Versatile for meal prep or a last-minute side.
What ingredients do I need for greek chickpea mason jar salad?
- 1 13.5oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 large cucumber, chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4oz crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 4-6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Use canned or cooked chickpeas for convenience.
- Substitute other cheeses like goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
- Add extra veggies like bell peppers or olives for variety.
- If avoiding dairy, simply omit feta or try a plant-based alternative.
How do I make greek chickpea mason jar salad step-by-step?
To make this salad, chop, dice, and slice your ingredients, then layer them in mason jars with dressing at the bottom. This method keeps your ingredients fresh until you’re ready to enjoy them.
- Start by prepping your ingredients: chop the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red onion, and rinse the chickpeas.
- In a medium bowl (or small jar), mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake or whisk until combined.
- Divide the dressing evenly among the jars.
- Layer in the chickpeas, followed by red onion, cucumber, and tomatoes.
- Add the feta cheese, then fill the jars to the top with chopped romaine lettuce.
- When ready to eat, dump the contents into a bowl or plate and toss to combine. Enjoy!
Pro Tip: Layering the ingredients in jars keeps your salad fresh and prevents the lettuce from getting soggy.
Visual doneness cues: Watch for vibrant colors and a freshness in the ingredients. You want the salad to look crisp and appetizing.
How should I serve it?
This salad is perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. You could also serve it with a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch or a side of crusty bread to soak up the dressing.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep, and it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just make sure to keep the dressing at the bottom of the jars to retain freshness. There’s no need to reheat; simply shake and serve cold.
How do I fix common issues?
If your salad turns out too soggy, make sure to layer the ingredients properly with the dressing at the bottom. If it’s bland, add more salt or a splash of lemon for brightness. For dry salad, consider adding a bit more dressing just before serving.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to switch up the veggies based on the season or what you have on hand. You could add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even cooked quinoa for more protein. For a kick, toss in some chopped jalapeños or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
FAQs
Can I use quinoa instead of chickpeas?
Yes! Quinoa is a fantastic substitute that adds a nutty flavor and extra protein. Just be sure to cook it before adding it to the salad.
What can I add for extra protein?
Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs all work well to add a protein boost.
How do I make it vegetarian?
This salad is already vegetarian! Just ensure that any added proteins like cheese or eggs fit your dietary preferences.
Can I use different types of lettuce?
Absolutely! Any leafy greens, such as spinach or mixed greens, will work nicely in this salad. Just chop them to a manageable size.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe can easily serve 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes and if it’s a main or side dish.
Enjoy this wholesome and vibrant greek chickpea mason jar salad as a refreshing addition to your meals!
Greek Chickpea Mason Jar Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Chop the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red onion, and rinse the chickpeas.
- In a medium bowl (or small jar), mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake or whisk until combined.
- Divide the dressing evenly among the mason jars.
- Layer in the chickpeas, followed by red onion, cucumber, and tomatoes.
- Add the feta cheese, then fill the jars to the top with chopped romaine lettuce.
- When ready to eat, dump the contents into a bowl or plate and toss to combine. Enjoy!