Healthy Summer Salad – On the Go Lunch!‏

Being a vegetarian I’m always looking for healthy meals. My goal is to try and share a few of my favorites with you. 🙂 One of my favorite easy lunches and perfect for the warmer weather is my Mason Jar Salad. You’ve probably seen them before…have you ever tried them? My kids even love them and lets face it, eating out of jar is just plain cool.

So here is a quick run down of how I prepare mine. I typically do all the prep work (chopping, marinating, etc.) the night before and then quickly assemble them in the morning.

Rinse and drain one can of Cannellini beans and pour into a bowl. Add 1/2 chopped shallot (more or less to taste). Sprinkle with salt, pepper, parsley flakes and a garlic grinder if you have one available. I buy mine at Aldi’s, the Garlic Sea Salt Grinder, but any brand will do. Drizzle balsamic vinegar and a little bit of olive oil over the beans to marinate. Chill covered in the fridge for 20 minutes or overnight if you are preparing your salad in the morning. Note, you will have enough bean mixture for up to 3-4 salads depending on how much you use.

In the meantime, chop up your favorite veggies and remember, there is no limit. Today I used orange peppers, grape tomatoes, lettuce and avocados. Feel free to use broccoli, cauliflower, olives, mushrooms the options are endless.

Once you’re ready to “assemble” your salad, grab your Mason Jar or you can even use a recycled jar (pickles, sauce, etc.) and layer with the bean mixture first. Then layer your vegetables leaving the lettuce for last. This keeps your lettuce from getting soggy. I top mine off with fresh parmesan cheese, because cheese makes everything better.

Once you’re ready to eat your salad, just give it a couple of good shakes…making sure the lid is on tight! You will only make that mistake once. 🙂 These are great for kids lunches, work, picnics, small parties and more. The options are endless!! I hope you enjoy! ~Holli