🌿 Chickpea Salad in a Jar
❓ Q: What ingredients do I need?
A:
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Dressing (goes on the bottom of the jar):
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp lemon juice (or vinegar)
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1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
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Salad Layers (from bottom to top):
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1 cup canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
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½ cup cucumber, diced
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½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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¼ cup red onion, finely diced
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¼ cup bell pepper, diced
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¼ cup shredded carrot or grated beet
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2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (optional)
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1–2 cups leafy greens (spinach, arugula, or mixed greens)
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❓ Q: How do I assemble the salad in a jar?
A: Follow these steps (bottom to top):
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Add the dressing to the bottom of the jar.
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Add chickpeas next — they’re sturdy and won’t get soggy.
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Layer in the veggies: cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, carrot/beet.
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Add cheese if using (optional).
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Top with greens — they stay dry and fresh at the top.
❓ Q: What kind of jar should I use?
A: Use a quart-sized (32 oz) mason jar or any large jar with a tight lid. For smaller portions, a pint (16 oz) jar works too.
❓ Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Up to 4–5 days when stored tightly sealed and upright (so dressing stays on the bottom).
❓ Q: How do I eat it?
A: When ready to eat:
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Shake the jar well to mix the dressing up through the salad, or
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Dump the contents into a bowl and toss before eating.
❓ Q: Can I customize the ingredients?
A: Absolutely! Here are some swaps:
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Protein: Add cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, tofu, or hard-boiled eggs
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Veggies: Use corn, avocado (add last-minute), radishes, or olives
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Dressing options: Balsamic vinaigrette, tahini-lemon, or Greek yogurt-based