Fresh and Flavorful: Mason Jar Taco Salad Recipe
Prep a satisfying lunch to-go or a light dinner with Mason Jar Taco Salad. Layer your favorite taco fillings with fresh romaine lettuce and taco sauce for a delicious and portable meal.
Looking for versatile meals? Leftovers from Brisket Tacos are perfect for this taco salad or for our Air Fryer Quesadillas!
We’re on a little bit of a meal prep mason jar salad kick around here (see last week’s mason jar chicken caesar salad). Now, I know what you’re thinking. ‘But why Mason jars?’ Ah, my friend, that’s where the magic happens. These nifty containers aren’t just for canning grandma’s famous preserves anymore. Nope, they’re the secret weapon for crafting Instagram-worthy salads that are as practical as they are pretty.
Pre-make your salad in a mason jar, and they stay fresh in the fridge for 3-5 days. Perfect for a healthy lunch that you can prepare ahead! This is great for taking to work, or for sending with high school kids to school or on long days of dance performances or sports activities.
Sound like a winner? Let’s get to shaking, layering, and taco-ing our way to a seriously satisfying lunch! Take Taco Tuesday on the go….
Mason Jar Taco Salad
Why I Love This Recipe
- With its compact and portable nature, this mason jar salad recipe is perfect for busy weekdays, picnics, or even as my grab-and-go option during my lunch break.
- I can customize my taco salad to match my taste preferences by adjusting the ingredients to include my favorite toppings and dressings. Same for kids – include what you like, leave out what you don’t.
- Packed with fresh veggies and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice to fuel your day.
How to Make the Recipe
Ingredients
- cooked chicken breast strips, ground beef, ground turkey, or shredded pork
- large carrots, julienned
- yellow, red, and orange bell peppers
- onion
- avocado
- lime
- salsa
- cucumber
- taco sauce or ranch dressing
- fresh romaine
- Quart wide-mouth Mason jars
Instructions
- Start by creating a base of salsa and taco sauce at the bottom of the jar. A tablespoon or two of the salad dressing is enough for a light version, or add more to your tastes.
- Next, delicately layer slices of avocado over the sauce.
- Follow with julienned carrots and diced bell peppers for a vibrant burst of color.
- Arrange cooked chicken breast strips atop the peppers. Give a zesty touch by squeezing fresh lime juice over the chicken.
- Add diced onion, cucumber, and tomatoes for a refreshing crunch.
- Top it all off with a generous serving of fresh romaine lettuce.
- Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate until it’s time to savor every delicious bite.
What to Serve with Taco Salad
Pair your taco salad with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Consider adding:
- Tortilla chips and guacamole for extra crunch and flavor.
- A side of Spanish rice or quinoa for a hearty touch.
- For a sweet contrast, add fresh fruit, such as sliced mango or pineapple.
Taco Salad Variations
While the classic taco salad recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors, don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or black beans for a meat-free alternative healthy taco salad recipe packed with protein.
- Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick of heat.
- Top your taco salad with shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of creamy guacamole or sour cream for added richness.
- For some added flavor, add some grilled corn, green onions, or cherry tomatoes.
- Cook the taco meat with cilantro and lime for a zesty low-sodium protein.
Skip the Bowl: Make a Mason Jar Taco Salad
Mason Jar Taco Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz chicken breast cooked, strips
- 1 cup carrots large
- 1/2 bell pepper yellow
- 1/2 bell pepper red
- 1/2 bell pepper orange
- 1/2 cup onion
- 1 large avocado
- 1 large lime
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup cucumber
- 2 tbsp taco sauce
- Fresh romaine
- 2 quart Mason jars wide mouth
Instructions
- Start by creating a base of salsa and taco sauce at the bottom of the jar.
- Next, delicately layer slices of avocado over the sauce.
- Follow with julienned carrots and diced bell peppers for a vibrant burst of color.
- Arrange cooked chicken breast strips atop the peppers. Give a zesty touch by squeezing fresh lime juice over the chicken.
- Add diced onion, cucumber, and tomatoes for a refreshing crunch.
- Top it all off with a generous serving of fresh romaine lettuce.
- Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate until it's time to savor every delicious bite.
How To Store
One of the perks of Mason jar salads is their ability to be prepped ahead of time for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week. Simply assemble the salad ingredients in the jar, screw on the lid tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, give the jar a good shake to distribute the dressing evenly, or pour the contents into a bowl for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Common Questions About Mason Jar Taco Salad:
- Can I use a different protein in this recipe? Yes, feel free to substitute the chicken with your protein of choice, such as grilled shrimp, beef, or even tempeh for a vegetarian option.
- Can I prepare Mason Jar Taco Salad in advance? Absolutely! These salads are perfect for meal prep. Simply layer the ingredients in the jar, screw on the lid, and store in the fridge until ready to eat. Shake it up or pour it into a bowl when you’re ready to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a convenient meal prep option or a flavorful twist on your lunch routine, the Mason Jar Taco Salad is sure to satisfy your cravings for fresh, Mexican-inspired flavors. With its customizable nature and portable design, it’s the perfect solution for busy days when you need a wholesome meal on the go. Give this recipe a try and elevate your salad game to new heights!
Share with Us
We’d love to see your take on this delicious recipe! Did you add a special twist? Did it turn out picture-perfect? If you make this recipe, tag us on social media using the hashtags #foodieaholic and #remodelaholic – we can’t wait to see your culinary creations!
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Cassity Kmetzsch started Remodelaholic after graduating from Utah State University with a degree in Interior Design. Remodelaholic is the place to share her love for knocking out walls, and building everything back up again to not only add function but beauty to her home. Together with her husband Justin, they have remodeled 6 homes and are working on a seventh. She is a mother of four amazing girls. Making a house a home is her favorite hobby.
