Savory Italian Chopped Salad Jar Recipe: A Symphony of Flavors in Every Bite

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The salad in a jar trend is not just about being a trendy new aesthetic visual, it's also a practical solution to keeping your greens crisp and your dressings bold. This recipe is a harmonious mixture of flavors and textures, waiting to burst alive at your very first forkful. Imagine robust Italian salad dressing paired with a crunchy assortment of veggies, all neatly tucked into a portable glass jar. It's culinary creativity and convenience in a single jar, separating the juiciness of dressings from the crunch of your greens. The convenience factor is huge, and with a quick twist of the lid, you have access to a delightful, homemade meal that's easy on time. Like any other salad, this recipe is customizable to the core, and you can tweak the jars for each family member's preference or dietary needs.

Your Italian Chopped Salad is safe from ending up a soggy mess, thanks to the strategic stacking of ingredients. Be sure to layer like a pro with a base of dressing that ensures the leaves stay dry and fresh. Most importantly you seal in the goodness. The jar locks in the crispness, extending the crunch of vegetables. This recipe is perfectly designed for those that like to plan and prep ahead as well as those that meal prep for the week ahead. Prep today and enjoy a stress-free meal tomorrow. When hunger strikes, a good shake distributes your dressing evenly, coating each bite with flavor The compact design of jar salads means you can take your Italian indulgence from picnics to work desks and everywhere in between!

What’s the best dressing?

An Italian vinaigrette isn't just a dressing, it’s an essential piece of the Italian Chopped Salad Jar! I would opt for a homemade Italian vinaigrette, because it's the heart of the salad, and it promises a truly authentic taste. Your vinaigrette should be bold yet refined, providing a perfect counterbalance to your fresh ingredients. However, as always with my recipes, feel free to experiment. Personalize your dressing with a dollop of mustard or a drizzle of honey for that perfect zing. Once you make the perfect dressing be sure to keep your greens lively and flavored precisely at the moment of consumption by positioning the dressing at the bottom and your greens on the top.

How far in advance can I make this Italian chopped salad?

With an Italian chopped salad jar, you're looking at a prepped meal that's fresh ahead of time. With the readied salad jar, your ahead-of-time time frame will promise freshness for 3-5 days. Your most important factor to get the extended length in time is layering, this extends the life of your salad. The jar's versatility means that its layers act as barriers, preserving taste and texture. Toppings on top, always. Keep your greens and perishables away from wet layers until it's time to eat, guaranteeing perfect crispness. Next to that you must seal the deal. Tight lids keep air out and freshness in, protecting your salad's integrity. On the brink of enjoying your salad, a good shake blends the taste throughout, ensuring every bite is as intended. The Italian chopped salad jar is your best friend for a week's worth of ready-to-eat, delightful lunches.

Italian Chopped Salad Jar: What to Put Inside

Fresh, crunchy bites of romaine next to the burst of juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil. Italian meats like salami deliver depth and are filling, however you can opt for chicken for those who don't want a deli meat (or can't have it like me right now pregnant). I opted to leave meat out and add it in the day of and provide choices to whoever if grabbing the salad to go. Don't forget to add a colorful medley of veggies and fixings. Olives, pepperoncini, and creamy mozzarella will add visual allure and taste. An added crunch of chickpeas was perfect to finish of this salad and add in additional nutrition. Meats, cheeses, and veggies stack for a visually stunning, nutritious meal. Dressing on the down low, tie it all together with a zesty Italian dressing for that final, flavorful flourish. Whether meal-prepped or picnic-bound, your Italian chopped salad jar remains stellar. From weekday lunches to outdoor dining, the Italian Chopped Salad wide-mouth Jar is as functional as it is appetizing. Also giving flexibility to swap or add, making the jar salad truly yours.

Gather your flavors. Romaine and radicchio lay a crisp, tantalizing foundation. Grape tomatoes and red onions inject vibrancy and a touch of sharper notes. Cucumber and chickpeas bring a satisfying crunch and a protein punch. The Italian authenticity age-old salami or pepperoni coupled with the rich, familiar flavors of provolone. A homemade dressing with olive oil, wine vinegar, and a sprinkle of Italy's favored herbs are all it takes to bind it all in delicious harmony.

The best practices for serving your Italian chilled sensation are to chill to perfection, because the colder and the crisper, the better. When serving you can shake or invert, to let the flavors flow through each layer without being over saturated. Unleash the medley into a bowl, toss, and let the ingredients mix and mingle. Don't forget to add the final touches. Fresh basil or lemon zest will bring forth the brilliance of this salad before the first satisfying bite.

Each Italian Chopped Salad Jar is a testament to the joy of healthy eating, with great flavors, textures, and convenience. Whether you're looking to shake up your meal prep routine or seeking to transport yourself to the Mediterranean with every bite, this recipe offers a delicious solution. Skip the restaurant and craft each jar with love and let the fresh flavors of Italy grace your table in a simple, yet sophisticated way. Buon appetite!

Ingredients

3 cups Romain Lettuce

1 cup Arugula

1/2 cup Truly Grass Fed Cheddar Cheese, diced

1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup English Cucumbers, chopped

1/2 cup Pepperoncini, chopped

1/2 cup red onion, diced

1 cup chickpeas

Dressing:

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/2 cup olive oil

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 cloved garlic, minced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

sea salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Add all dressing ingredients to bottom of jar and using a small whisk blend together.

2. Next start layering to make sure lettuce is farthest away from dressing. Add in cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, pepperoncini's, chickpeas, truly grass-fed cheddar cheese, and lastly lettuce.

3. Add lid and place in fridge until ready to enjoy. When ready to eat turn over and pour into plate or bowl letting dressing completely come out. Mix together and enjoy!

Other Delicious Salads You Will Love:

Delicious, Nutritious Pear & Walnut Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

The Perfect Match: Grilled Steak & Blue Cheese Salad with Grilled Corn paired with J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon

Discover the Delightful Twist of Sweet Kale Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

A Taste of the Southwest: Southwestern Chop Salad Recipe

Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad with Apples, Goat Cheese & Candied Pecans

The Perfect Summer Meal: Grilled Chicken, Mexican Street Corn & Cucumber Salad

The Fully Loaded Iceberg Wedge Salad

How to Make the Perfect Pear and Pomegranate Arugula Salad

Savor the Twist: Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

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This Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a culinary marvel that bridges the gap between two beloved classics: the creamy decadence of deviled eggs and the cold comfort of pasta salad. This makes for a dish that brings together delightful nostalgia and modern convenience in every bite. Ideal for gatherings of all kinds, from sunny picnics to homely potlucks, this unique side dish offers a versatile and flavorful experience that can be tailored to any palate.

Starting with a base of al dente pasta, the Deviled Egg Pasta Salad incorporates the essential pillars of its namesake: hard-boiled eggs, rich mayonnaise, tangy mustard, and a touch of spice. It is a testament to the simplicity of cooking, highlighting that food does not have to be overcomplicated to be delightful.

This recipe combines the traditional flavors of deviled eggs with the casual allure of pasta salad. This makes it Ideal for a wide range of events such as picnics, potlucks, and family dinners. Consisting of a mix of hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and custom spices intertwined with your choice of pasta, this dish pairs perfectly along side burgers, bbq and sandwiches of all kinds. You can easily personalize this dish with tasty add-ons like savory bacon pieces, aromatic chives, or a dash of paprika for an extra layer of spice and flavor. Designed for convenience, you can prepare this dish in advance to let the mix of flavors blend and intensify. Think outside the box with add-ins such as tart diced pickles, crispy bacon, or assorted chesses to diversify the palate. Adjust the creaminess and zest of the dressing to your preference. The balance of mayonnaise and mustard can be played with, to strike the right creamy tang to your liking. A quick tip for making ahead is to mix the dressing with the pasta and let it sit in the refrigerator. For a burst of freshness, add your toppings right before serving. Remember that textures and flavors are key to reviving the classical taste of the Deviled Egg within your pasta salad!

Tips For Garnishing:

The Deviled Egg Pasta Salad invokes the coziness of home with its assembly of comforting ingredients. The pasta serves as the ideal vessel for the creamy and tangy dressing that is reminiscent of deviled eggs. Spruce it up with bacon bits for a crisp topping. Snip fresh chives over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Add a generous helping of shredded cheese for a luxurious finish. Always remember, the crowning glory of a Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is in its garnish, making it as visually appealing as it is palatable.

By honoring the key components which are pasta enveloped in a seasoned mayonnaise and mustard blend, this dish definitely celebrates familiarity. Textural contrast is achieved through the addition of chopped hard-boiled eggs and a final garnish of paprika. Its smokiness provides a subtle nod to traditional deviled eggs. Whether you’re savoring it as a hearty side or as a main, this Deviled Egg Pasta Salad stands tall as a testament to innovation grounded in classic tastes. For an elegant touch, consider serving individual portions, garnished with a sprig of dill, pickle relish or parsley for proof that simplicity can be sophisticated.

The Boiled Egg Pasta Salad is more than just a dish, it's a delightful melding of tradition and innovation. From casual picnics to elegant dinner spreads, it's a versatile delight that offers nostalgic tastes with contemporary flair. Indulge in its creamy goodness, celebrate its familiar flavors, and take pride in your own unique spin. As you embark on your deviled egg pasta salad journey, may your meals be joyous and your hearts and plates full. Bon appétit!

Ingredients

16 ounces elbow macaroni or any small noodles

10 hard-boiled eggs

1 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard

1 tablespoons lemon juice

1 clove garlic minced

½ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup finely diced celery

1/2 cup finely diced red onion

sliced green onions & additional paprika

Instructions

1. Cook your preferred pasta until it’s al dente, then rinse under cool water. Hard-boil the eggs, chill them, peel, and proceed to chop for mixing and slice a few (setting aside) for garnishing the top.

2. Prepare a dressing in a medium mixing bowl add mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, paprika, black pepper to craft a luscious dressing, seasoning to taste with additional salt & pepper. Whisk together and set aside.

4. Toss the chopped eggs, cooled pasta, celery, and red onion. Coating evenly with the dressing made above until combined well.

5. Chill for at least an hour, letting the flavors develop. Garnishing with additional sliced hard boiled eggs, bacon crumbles, green onions and paprika just before serving keeps it visually compelling and delicious.

See how it’s made on my Instagram Reel

The Perfect Match: Grilled Steak & Blue Cheese Salad with Grilled Corn paired with J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon

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If you're looking for a new recipe that's delicious, hearty, and healthy, look no further than this grilled steak and blue cheese salad with grilled corn! This savory dish is made with flavorful steak, creamy blue cheese, and sweet grilled corn. Pair with a glass of the J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon to create a world-class meal that's sure to please. Not only is this dish tasty, but it's also easy to make, giving you a delectable dinner on the table in no time! One of my favorite go to salad meals and I am especially enjoying it on National Cabernet Day today!

Let me just say, that this unique combination of flavors will surely impress your dinner guests and make even the pickiest eater happy. A juicy steak is the perfect complement to the tangy blue cheese and smoky grilled corn for a flavor combination that is out of this world. Let's not forget that when accompanied by a glass of J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet, the dining adventure of this meal becomes truly epic! The bold, full-bodied flavor of the Cabernet adds the perfect touch of elegance to this dish, making it an ideal pairing for a casual dinner at home to an elegant dinner party.

A little background on the wine is that it is produced and bottled by J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines in Paso Robles, CA. In the glass you’lll see a deep, bright, red-purple hue and on the nose an abundance of dark cherry and black currant fruit enhanced by accent notes of toasted pastry, hazelnut, and vanilla. This comes from their extensive barrel aging program. I find that you can pair this Cabernet with a variety of dishes, from pulled pork sandwiches and coleslaw to your favorite lasagna. Hard cheeses and beef are the best pairing of them all which is why I think this steak and blue cheese salad is the ultimate dish.

Steak Choices

The key to making this salad is to choose the right cut of steak. In my opinion, a grilled ribeye works best as the ribeye has a bold, beefy flavor that will stand up to the intense flavors of the blue cheese. For a juicy, flavorful steak, look for a steak with plenty of marbling. To get that perfect medium-rare steak, grill each side for 3-4 minutes at high heat. Make sure to rest the steak for 5-10 minutes after cooking, as this will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure it’s perfectly juicy. Add grilled corn, blue cheese crumbles, and a drizzle of the blue cheese dressing to complete the salad.

Grilling Corn

Start lightly brushing the corn with extra virgin olive oil or melted butter before grilling. This will ensure even cooking and maximum flavor when it's time to add it to the salad. Grill the corn over medium-high heat, turning frequently, for approximately 8-10 minutes until it is lightly charred and tender. Add a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to the corn for optimal flavor before grilling. Once the corn is finished grilling, let it cool slightly before adding it to the salad.

Salad Ingredients

Serving 4

10 ounces of butter lettuce or mixed spring greens

2 - 10 oz ribeye steaks

1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles

4 corn on the cob

1/2 a large red onion, sliced

6 oz cherry tomatoes, halved

1 avocado thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise

3/4 cup low-fat buttermilk

1/2 cup sour cream

4 oz blue cheese crumbled

3 garlic cloves minced

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon ground pepper

1/4-1/2 teaspoon coarse salt

Directions

1. Rinse and pat dry all fruit and vegetables.

2. Add all dressing ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. If you liked your blue cheese dressing more chunky, you can add crumbles into the dressing now. For a thinner consistency, leave alone after blending. This dressing can be premade in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days ahead.

3. Grill steaks and corn. Start your grill, butter corn on the cob, and add salt and pepper to corn and steaks. Place steaks and corn on the grill. Grill corn for 8-10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes. Grill Steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked to your liking. Remove all from the grill and let sit for 5-10 minutes. Slice steaks into strips and cut corn off of the cob.

4. Now, it's time to assemble the grilled steak blue cheese salad with grilled corn salad. Add butter lettuce roughly chopped into a large bowl with half the red onion, corn, blue cheese, and cherry tomatoes. Pour dressing over the top and stir together! Then, layer the remainder of the red onion, corn, cherry tomatoes, sliced steak, and avocado. Liberally sprinkle blue cheese on top and serve!

My husband and I always enjoy a great steak dinner with a chopped salad, the perfect way to enjoy it as a lighter fare. Nothing compares to the smoky, charred flavor of grilled steak and the blue cheese's nutty richness. Enjoy the flavors of this delicious steak salad paired with the J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon for a truly memorable experience. I love how this Cabernet brings out the charred flavors of the steak and the nutty flavors of the blue cheese. The sweetness of the grilled corn is a perfect balance for the bold cabernet, creating an unparalleled flavor combination.

For Other Recipes & Pairings with J.Lohr wines:

The Perfect Pair: Chicken Picatta and J. Lohr Wine

Planning the Perfect Romantic Picnic with J. Lohr Wines

The Bloggers Guide to Merlot

A Refreshing and Delicious Melon Burrata Salad Recipe

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This refreshing Melon Burrata Salad is the perfect way to enjoy the fresh Summer produce in a fun and unique way! This meal is a surprisingly perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making this salad a great appetizer or side dish for any meal. The freshness and sweetness of the melon along with the creamy burrata create a delicious balance, while the addition of mint and basil provides a bright flavor. The light vinaigrette dressing brings out the flavor of all the components, tying the dish together. This salad is incredibly simple yet flavorful, making it an ideal Summer side dish. I've been loving recipes lately with a refreshing mix of different flavors that blend well together and are a little different than the normal dishes everybody knows and uses!

Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette

The Melon Burrata Salad is a classic recipe that is elevated to the next level when paired with a delicious Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette. This vinaigrette adds a perfect balance of sweetness from the Strawberries and acidity from the balsamic vinegar to the salad. This combination of flavors brings out the best in the melon and the creaminess of the burrata. The Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette adds a depth of flavor to the Melon Burrata Salad that is not found in other salad dressings.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Not only is it a delicious combination of flavors, but it's also simple to make ahead of time. Simply prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and keep in mind that if adding basil and/or balsamic glaze, then wait to add it until just before serving. To keep the salad fresh, store the ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to store pre-cut melon separately to prevent it from becoming soggy. If you're looking to preserve the creamy texture of the burrata, wait to add it as well until you're ready to serve. This melon burrata salad is the perfect dish to get started on in your free time to plan ahead and tackle the busy work week with less stress.

What Ingredients Are Needed to Make a Melon Burrata Salad?

This Summer, try a delicious and refreshing Melon Burrata Salad. This light and flavorful dish is sure to become a new favorite! Start by selecting a ripe and juicy melon such as cantaloupe, honeydew, or watermelon. Then add a soft and creamy cheese, like burrata, for a delightful burst of flavor. Layer melon and cheese with a few handfuls of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens. Finally, drizzle the salad with balsamic dressing (recipe below), and season with salt and pepper to taste. For a little extra crunch, top with a sprinkle of roasted pistachios.

For this salad, you will need cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon, burrata, and your favorite vinaigrette. If you can't find all the melons, don't fret! Fresh strawberries, cherries, or figs make a wonderful substitute that will still yield a very sweet and delicious flavor. If you are out of burrata and need another cheese to substitute, mozzarella balls are a great flavor choice and give a similar look and texture to this salad. For a sweeter salad, add a tablespoon of honey to the dressing. To add a salty, smoky flavor, add a few slices of prosciutto. For a hint of herbal flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs such as basil, mint, or thyme.

This salad pairs well with a light white or rosé wine, making it a perfect accompaniment to any summertime meal. Serve this tasty dish with toasted sourdough bread on the side for a delightful crunch. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time!

Ingredients

2 or 3 handfuls of lettuce (optional but makes a pretty display)

3 Cups cubed Watermelon

2 Cups cubed Honeydew

2 Cups cubed Cantelope

8 ounces of burrata cheese, at room temperature

1/4 cup roasted pistachios, chopped

Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1/4 cup fresh basil

1 tablespoon strawberry preserves

1 tablespoon raw honey

kosher salt & fresh black pepper

Instructions

1. Mix together all Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette ingredients in a mason jar and shake together until the ingredients come together. Toast chopped pistachios in a pan over the stove until slightly toasty and set aside. Cube all watermelon, honeydew and cantelope. Let burrata come to room temperature.

2. Start assembling the melon burrata salad. Lay down a bed of 2 or 3 handfuls of your favorite lettuce I am using arugula. Add melons. Top with burrata, using your fingers or a fork break apart and spread over the melons.

3. Drizzle Balsamic strawberry vinaigrette and sprinkle pistachios. Add additional basil for color and serve!

This melon burrata salad is easy to make and truly delicious. It's the perfect way to start any Summer meal or have as an amazing appetizer. Either way, it will be a burst of flavor that will surprise your guests and have them coming back for seconds.

Other Salads You Will Love:

How to Make the Perfect Pear and Pomegranate Arugula Salad

Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad with Apples, Goat Cheese & Candied Pecans

The Perfect Summer Meal: Grilled Chicken, Mexican Street Corn & Cucumber Salad