Save to Pinterest The first time I packed these jars for a week of work lunches, my cubicle neighbors kept asking what smelled like a Greek island vacation. Something about that combination of briny olives, fresh herbs, and creamy feta makes the whole fridge smell inviting. I started doubling the batch because my partner kept swiping jars for their own office lunches. Now meal prep feels less like a chore and more like packing little edible gifts to myself.
My friend Sarah came over for meal prep Sunday once and watched me assemble these with total fascination. She had never heard of the dressing-on-bottom method and was skeptical about whether shaking a jar could really replace tossing a salad. The next day she texted me a photo of her empty jar with the caption genius. Now she hosts her own Sunday assembly lines and sends me photos of her colorful jars lined up like soldiers.
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: This tiny rice-shaped pasta is the secret sauce for making the salad feel substantial without being heavy
- Cooked chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here, saving you time and adding that slow-cooked flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: They stay firmer than sliced tomatoes and burst pleasantly when you bite into them
- Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and crunch that balances the briny olives perfectly
- Kalamata olives: These Greek staples bring that signature Mediterranean punch and saltiness
- Feta cheese: Creamy, tangy, and absolutely essential for authentic Greek flavor
- Red wine vinegar: Provides the perfect acidic backbone that makes everything taste brighter
- Dried oregano: The herb that practically defines Greek cuisine, use generous amounts
Instructions
- Cook your orzo to perfection:
- Boil the pasta until just tender, then immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping
- Whisk up the dressing:
- Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified and fragrant
- Prep your jars:
- Get four 16-ounce mason jars ready and make sure they are completely dry before layering
- Build the foundation:
- Divide the dressing evenly among the jars, then add red onion, bell pepper, and cucumber directly on top
- Add the middle layers:
- Scatter cherry tomatoes over the vegetables, then spoon in the cooled orzo pasta
- Finish with the good stuff:
- Top each jar with chicken, olives, crumbled feta, and a sprinkling of fresh parsley
Save to Pinterest These jars saved me during an especially chaotic month at work when cooking dinner felt impossible. I remember sitting at my desk on a rainy Tuesday, tired and stressed, then opening my jar and suddenly feeling like I was transported to a sunny taverna. Food should do that sometimes, transport you, even just for fifteen minutes.
Make It Your Own
Swap out the orzo for quinoa or whole wheat pasta if you want to boost the fiber content. Sometimes I add artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers when I find good ones at the market. The beauty of this template is its flexibility, the layering method works with whatever Mediterranean ingredients inspire you.
Storage Wisdom
These jars keep beautifully for four days in the refrigerator, though the pasta will continue to absorb dressing as it sits. If you know you will be eating them later in the week, consider making extra dressing to refresh on day four. Always keep the jars upright and give them a good shake or pour into a bowl before serving.
Serving Suggestions
While these are perfect as standalone lunches, I love serving them alongside warm pita bread or a simple Greek soup for dinner. They also work beautifully as a side dish for grilled fish or lamb. When company comes over, I assemble everything in a large bowl instead, tossing gently to combine all those gorgeous layers.
- Let the jar sit at room temperature for ten minutes before eating for best flavor
- Keep a small jar of extra dressing handy if you love things extra tangy
- A sprinkle of extra dried oregano right before serving wakes everything up
Save to Pinterest There is something deeply satisfying about opening the refrigerator to see four perfectly layered jars waiting for you. Hope these brighten your weekdays as much as they have mine.
Questions & Answers
- → How long do these salad jars stay fresh?
When properly sealed and refrigerated, these layered salads remain fresh for up to 4 days. The dressing at the bottom keeps the vegetables crisp and prevents sogginess.
- → 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 store in the refrigerator. Simply shake or toss when ready to eat.
- → What's the best way to serve the salad from the jar?
Shake the sealed jar vigorously to distribute the dressing throughout, or pour the contents into a bowl and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- → Can I swap out the orzo pasta?
Absolutely. Whole-wheat pasta, quinoa, or farro work wonderfully as substitutes, each adding different textures and nutritional profiles to your salad.
- → Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with vegan feta alternative. The salad remains flavorful with the briny olives and herbaceous dressing.
- → What type of chicken works best?
Grilled or rotisserie chicken breast is ideal for this salad. You can also poach chicken breasts and season them with oregano, lemon, and olive oil for extra Mediterranean flavor.