Save The first time I packed these layered jars for a week of office lunches, my coworkers kept asking what restaurant I'd ordered from. There's something almost magical about how the dressing works its way through the layers overnight, transforming simple ingredients into something that tastes freshly assembled.
My sister called me midweek, slightly frantic, asking how I managed to eat so well during my busiest work season. When I described these jars, she started making them that same weekend. Now we swap photos of our jar combinations like proud parents showing off toddler art projects.
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta holds up beautifully against the dressing and provides that perfect Mediterranean texture
- Cooked chicken breast: Use a rotisserie chicken to save time or grill extra on Sunday for the week ahead
- Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness balances the briny olives and tangy feta without getting mealy
- Cucumber and red bell pepper: These stay crisp even after days in the fridge when layered properly
- Red onion: Thinly sliced, it mellows slightly while still adding that essential sharp bite
- Kalamata olives: These bring that authentic Greek flavor profile you can't substitute with regular black olives
- Feta cheese: The creamy, salty element that ties all the vegetables together
- Extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar: The classic Mediterranean base that makes everything taste brighter
- Dried oregano and garlic: These aromatic staples create that restaurant-quality Greek dressing
- Dijon mustard: The secret ingredient that emulsifies the dressing so it coats every layer evenly
Instructions
- Perfect your pasta:
- Cook orzo until just tender, then rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking
- Whisk the magic:
- Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified
- Prep your vessels:
- Set out four 16-ounce mason jars with lids and create a small assembly station
- Layer with intention:
- Start with dressing at the bottom, followed by onion, bell pepper, cucumber, tomatoes, pasta, chicken, olives, feta, and finish with parsley on top
- Seal and chill:
- Tighten lids and refrigerate up to 4 days
- Shake and enjoy:
- Give jars a vigorous shake before eating or pour into bowls for a more elegant presentation
Save Last summer, I packed these for a beach picnic with friends. Everyone reached for their sandwiches first, but by noon, all four jars were empty and people were asking for the recipe.
Make Ahead Your Best Friend
Spend 30 minutes on Sunday and you'll thank yourself repeatedly during busy weekdays when lunch is already waiting.
Customize Your Layers
Swap chickpeas for chicken, add artichoke hearts, or toss in some roasted red peppers based on what's in your pantry.
The Shake Technique
Shaking the jar distributes the dressing through all the layers, but some ingredients, like whole cherry tomatoes, might bounce around enthusiastically.
- Use wide-mouth jars for easier eating straight from the container
- If taking to work, pack a fork or invest in a good set of reusable utensils
- The parsley on top prevents the feta from drying out in the fridge
Save There's genuine satisfaction in opening the fridge and seeing four neat jars lined up like little soldiers ready to save your lunch hour.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long can I store these salad jars?
Sealed mason jars keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days. The layering technique prevents the greens and vegetables from wilting by keeping the dressing separated until serving.
- → Can I prepare these jars ahead of time?
Yes, these are ideal for meal prep. Assemble all four jars at once, seal them tightly, and refrigerate. They're perfect for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- → What's the best way to serve the salad?
Shake the sealed jar vigorously to distribute the dressing evenly throughout, or pour the contents into a bowl and toss gently. Both methods ensure every bite has balanced flavors.
- → Can I substitute the orzo pasta?
Absolutely. Whole-wheat orzo, quinoa, or other small pasta shapes work well. Choose options based on your dietary preferences and desired texture.
- → How do I make this dairy-free?
Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with dairy-free feta alternatives available at most grocery stores. The salad remains delicious and nutritious without it.
- → What type of chicken works best?
Grilled chicken breast or rotisserie chicken both work perfectly. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano before cooking.