Spicy Carrot and Vegetable Salad for Jars

Here’s a Spicy Carrot and Vegetable Salad for Jars—crisp, bold, and designed to keep well in the fridge for easy grab-and-go meals.

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Spicy Carrot and Vegetable Salad (Meal-Prep Jar Style)

This salad is layered for freshness and flavor, with a tangy, spicy dressing that softens the vegetables slightly over time without making them soggy.

Yield

Makes about 4–5 quart-size jars or 6–8 pint-size jars

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Ingredients

Vegetables

• 3 cups shredded carrots

• 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced

• 1 cup cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced

• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (any color)

• ½ cup red onion, very thinly sliced

• ½ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup blanched green beans or snap peas

• 1 cup edamame or chickpeas (for protein)

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds or roasted peanuts

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Spicy Dressing

• ⅓ cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• 1–2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce or sriracha (to taste)

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced

• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (sunflower, avocado, or vegetable)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

Whisk all dressing ingredients together until well combined.

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Jar Assembly Directions

1. Add dressing first
   Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of dressing into the bottom of each jar. This keeps the vegetables fresh and evenly marinated.

2. Layer sturdy vegetables
   Add carrots, cabbage, and green beans (if using) directly on top of the dressing. These hold up well and absorb flavor.

3. Add softer vegetables
   Layer cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onion next.

4. Finish with herbs and toppings
   Top with cilantro, sesame seeds, or peanuts. If adding leafy greens, place them at the very top.

5. Seal and store
   Close jars tightly and refrigerate.

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Storage and Serving

• Storage: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• To serve: Shake the jar well or pour into a bowl and toss before eating.

• Best texture: Flavor improves after 12–24 hours of chilling.

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Flavor Variations

• Korean-style: Add gochujang to the dressing and a splash of rice wine.

• Thai-inspired: Add lime juice and a little fish sauce; top with peanuts.

• Extra heat: Add sliced fresh chili or chili oil.

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Tips for Success

• Use a mandoline or julienne peeler for uniform texture.

• Pat cucumbers dry before adding to prevent excess moisture.

• Adjust sweetness and heat after tasting the dressing.