Add to Pinterest Last summer my sister returned from Greece obsessed with layered salads in jars. She raved about how the dressing trickled down through layers over hours, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Skeptical but curious, I tried my own version on a humid Tuesday when cooking felt like too much effort. By lunch the next day, after that magic shake in the office breakroom, I finally understood her obsession.
My now husband jokes that these jars won his heart during our dating days. I packed one for our third picnic, nervous about making something impressive yet casual. Watching him shake that jar and take his first bite, eyes widening at the explosion of flavors, I knew this recipe would stay in our rotation forever.
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Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: The tiny rice shaped pasta catches dressing beautifully, though it rinses better cold than any other pasta I have tried
- Cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here, saving time while adding that savory depth
- Cherry tomatoes: They stay firmer than larger tomatoes when jarred, bursting with juice when you bite into them
- Cucumber and red bell pepper: These crunchy vegetables hold their texture beautifully nestled against the dressing
- Red onion: Thin slices mellow slightly in the acidic dressing, adding just enough bite without overwhelming
- Fresh parsley: I have tried other herbs, but parsley brings the brightest grassy note that complements feta
- Kalamata olives: Their briny punch balances the creamy elements and adds that authentic Greek character
- Feta cheese: The salty creaminess ties all the Mediterranean flavors together
- Extra virgin olive oil: Quality matters here since it is the backbone of your dressing
- Red wine vinegar: Provides the perfect tangy brightness without being too harsh
- Dried oregano: The dried version actually works better than fresh, dispersing evenly throughout the dressing
- Garlic: One clove is plenty, mellowing nicely as the jars sit
- Dijon mustard: The secret ingredient that emulsifies everything and adds subtle depth
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Instructions
- Cool your pasta completely:
- Rinse under cold water until the pasta feels chilled to the touch, preventing it from becoming gummy
- Whisk up your dressing:
- Combine olive oil, vinegar, oregano, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified
- Layer like a pro:
- Start with dressing at the bottom, then onions, peppers, cucumber, tomatoes, orzo, chicken, olives, feta, and parsley on top
- Seal and chill:
- Tighten those lids and refrigerate up to 4 days, giving ingredients time to become friends
- Shake and enjoy:
- Shake vigorously before eating or pour into a bowl and toss to distribute all that delicious dressing
Add to Pinterest These jars became my office lunch salvation during a particularly demanding project. Colleagues started asking about my colorful lunch, and soon I was teaching jar layering workshops in the breakroom. There is something satisfying about opening that fridge and seeing four perfectly portable meals waiting.
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Make It Your Own
Whole wheat orzo adds nutty depth and extra fiber, though it requires careful timing to avoid toughness. Quinoa works surprisingly well and keeps the dish gluten free while maintaining that satisfying grain texture.
Dairy Free Options
Vegan feta has improved dramatically in recent years, and I have successfully used it without compromising the spirit of the dish. The olives and dressing carry enough flavor that you will not miss the traditional cheese.
Serving Suggestions
These jars shine alongside warm pita bread or crackers, though they are substantial enough to stand alone. I love serving them for summer gatherings, letting guests shake their own jars at the table.
- Pack the dressing separately if you prefer ultimate crunch retention
- Bring a fork with a long handle for reaching the bottom layers
- These travel beautifully for outdoor concerts or beach days
Add to Pinterest These jars taught me that meal prep never has to mean sacrificing joy or flavor. Here is to many colorful, delicious lunches ahead.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How long do these jars stay fresh?
These layered jars stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when sealed tightly. The dressing at the bottom keeps ingredients crisp until you shake to combine.
- → Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with a vegan alternative. The Mediterranean flavors remain delicious without the dairy element.
- → What pasta works best?
Orzo is ideal for its small size that layers beautifully, but you can substitute with whole-wheat pasta, quinoa, or other small pasta shapes depending on your preference.
- → Should I shake before eating?
Yes, shake the jar vigorously to distribute the dressing evenly, or pour contents into a bowl and toss to combine all the Mediterranean flavors before enjoying.
- → Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken, grilled breast leftovers, or any cooked chicken works perfectly. Just dice or shred it before layering into your jars.
