Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that you can take on the go? Look no further than our vibrant Apple Cranberry Almond Mason Jar Salads! Packed with fresh spinach, crunchy almonds, and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up these colorful salads that are ideal for lunch, picnics, or meal prep. Get ready to impress your taste buds and elevate your salad game—let's dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 apple, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly, ensuring no moisture remains to prevent wilting.
- Dice the apple into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size. To prevent browning, you can toss the apple cubes with a little lemon juice.
- Roughly chop the almonds into smaller pieces using a sharp knife or food processor. Toast the almonds lightly in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor if desired.
- Select four clean mason jars with tight-fitting lids, preferably wide-mouth for easier assembly and serving.
- Begin layering the salad by first adding 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinaigrette to the bottom of each mason jar.
- Carefully add the diced apple on top of the vinaigrette, creating the first layer to prevent immediate soaking of other ingredients.
- Next, add the dried cranberries on top of the apple layer, distributing them evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped almonds as the next layer, providing a crunchy texture.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the almonds, ensuring even distribution.
- Finally, top the jar with fresh spinach leaves, filling to the top of the jar.
- Seal the mason jars with their lids and store upright in the refrigerator.
- When ready to eat, shake the jar vigorously to mix the ingredients and distribute the dressing, then pour into a bowl or eat directly from the jar.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Make sure to wash and dry the spinach thoroughly to keep it crisp and fresh. Any moisture can lead to wilting, so use a salad spinner if you have one.
- Prevent Browning: To keep your diced apples looking fresh, toss them with a splash of lemon juice right after cutting. This simple trick will help maintain their vibrant color.
- Enhance Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the chopped almonds in a dry skillet for a few minutes until they are golden brown. This will bring out their nutty aroma and crunch.
- Layering Matters: When assembling your mason jars, layer the ingredients in the right order. Starting with the balsamic vinaigrette at the bottom prevents the spinach from getting soggy and allows for a delightful mix of flavors when you shake it up.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These salads can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just remember to keep the jars upright and sealed until you're ready to enjoy!
- Shake it Up: When it’s time to eat, give the jar a good shake to mix everything together before pouring it into a bowl or enjoying it straight from the jar. This ensures that every bite is deliciously dressed!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 235kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
