Rainbow Peanut Salad in a Jar

Red, orange, yellow and green - eat all the veggies in the rainbow in this delicious Rainbow Peanut Salad in a Jar.

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What is a Salad in a Jar?

A salad in a jar is a great way to enjoy your salads on the go. It consists of a salad, usually packed in layers (with dressing on the bottom), and stored in an airtight jar. Typically Mason jars are used, but any jar with a sealing lid will do the trick.

A salad in a jar can be used for any salad, recipes exist for just about any you can think of! This is a great way to pack a salad for a work lunch or meal prep salads for the entire week.

When you're ready to enjoy your salad, simply shake the jar, distributing the dressing, and you're conveniently ready to eat straight from the jar. Just don't forget your fork!

Rainbow Peanut Salad in a Jar

This Rainbow Peanut Salad in a Jar is filled to the brim with crunchy vegetables, a homemade creamy dressing, and tons of plant-based protein. This is the perfect salad to prep and stock your fridge for a full week of lunches. 

Trade out that boring sandwich and bring a work lunch full of flavor and color. Don't be fooled into thinking a salad is a skimpy lunch. With almost 20g of protein and 17g of fiber, this salad will keep you full for longer. You can truly eat the rainbow this week in the most satisfying of ways! 

Rainbow peanut salad in a jar ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients (and a Mason jar) and you'll be set:

Salad Ingredients

• bell peppers - orange & yellow
• green onions
• cilantro
• edamame
• brown rice pad thai noodles
• spinach 
• red cabbage 
• carrots
• peanut dressing 

Peanut Dressing Ingredients

• ½ cup peanut butter
• ¼ cup water
• 4 tablespoon soy sauce
• 3 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoon sriracha
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder

How to make a rainbow peanut salad in a jar

Follow these instructions to make this amazing mason jar salad! 

• Gather all ingredients.
• Start by cooking the noodles.
• Wash and chop all vegetables.
• Combine all ingredients in a small bowl to make the dressing. Give the dressing a good shake to make sure all is combined. 
• Add the dressing to the bottom of the jar. Make layers with all of the ingredients. Top with spinach and seal with the lid.
• Keep in the fridge until you consume.
• Enjoy!

Rainbow peanut salad in a jar substitution ideas

Check out these substitutions for this yummy recipe:

• Bell pepper: I suggest orange and yellow, but you can always substitute red bell pepper or green!
• Add protein: If you're looking to add some extra protein to this recipe, you could prep some shredded chicken, used canned tuna or salmon, or a plant-based protein like tofu. 
• Noodles: Different types of noodles will work here - like rice noodles, or even ramen noodles. 
• Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try sesame seeds for a bit of crunch, or red pepper flake to add a bit of spice.

How long does a rainbow peanut salad in a jar last in the fridge?

This mason jar peanut salad will last for up to five days in the fridge. Make sure the jar is completely sealed. 

That is the beauty of this prepped salad. It's ready to go straight from the fridge with toppings and dressing. 

How to meal prep this recipe

This is the perfect way to whip up a big batch of a delicious, colorful salad. To meal prep, gather all the ingredients you need for the number of salads you want to prep. Then, make according to instructions. 

The more mason jars you have, the more salads you can prep. I suggest stopping at five jars, since the greens may start to wilt after five days in the fridge. 

What goes well with a rainbow peanut salad in a jar

This mason jar rainbow salad would go great with some fruit on the side. I love apple slices, fresh berries, or oranges with my lunches. 

How healthy is a rainbow peanut salad in a jar?

Bell peppers are full of Vitamin C. Edamame is a powerhouse of plant-based protein and full of antioxidants and fiber. Spinach is one of the best natural sources of iron. 

​"Healthy" is subjective, but what's not subjective is that this salad is going to fuel your body with tons of vitamins and protein. It will support your body and your personal health and fitness goals!

How long will salad in a jar last?

This salad in a jar will last for up to five days in a sealed, airtight container in the fridge. 

Are mason jar salads worth it?

Totally! Prepping salads in mason jars is such an easy way to set yourself up to eat yummy, nutritious lunches all week long. 

Do mason jar salads get soggy?

Mason jar salads could get soggy if they are not assembled in the correct way. Make sure you follow instructions with the layering and definitely put the dressing on the bottom. This ensures the lettuce doesn't get soggy. 

Layer the leafy greens on top, so they stay nice and crispy. Also, don't attempt to shake and mix the salad until right before you're ready to eat. 

Will lettuce stay fresh in a Mason jar?

Yes, the lettuce will stay fresh for up to five days in a sealed, airtight container in the fridge. As I said above, make sure to layer properly and your lettuce will definitely stay fresh and crispy. 

Other delicious salad ideas

Try these other yummy salads from Jordo's World:

• Light and Easy Broccoli Salad
• Fall Harvest Salad
• Simple Side Salad