Home>Recipe>Mason Jar Meals and More in the Instant Pot Recipes
Recipe
Mason Jar Meals and More in the Instant Pot Recipes
Published: April 1, 2024
This mason jar meal is my go-to! It's a hearty mix of quinoa, beans, and veggies, spiced just right. Perfect for a quick, nutritious lunch or dinner.
(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for HomePressureCooking.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)
Okay, folks, you've got to try this. I've whipped up this mason jar meal using my beloved Instant Pot. It's packed full of hearty quinoa, crunchy veggies, zesty spices, and topped off with tangy salsa and gooey cheese. Just imagine, all those flavors marinating together in the fridge...talk about a mouth-watering lunch waiting to happen! Perfect for busy weeks - you're going to love it.
Ingredients for Delicious Instant Pot Mason Jar Meals
- Quinoa: High in protein and fiber, quinoa adds a nutty flavor and fluffy texture to the dish.
- Water: Essential for cooking the quinoa and ensuring the grains are properly hydrated for a perfect texture.
- Black beans: Packed with protein and fiber, black beans add a hearty and satisfying element to the meal.
- Corn kernels: Sweet and crunchy, corn kernels bring a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, as well as a vibrant pop of color to the recipe.
- Red onion: Provides a sharp and slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients in the dish.
- Cumin: Adds a warm and earthy flavor with a hint of citrus, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.
- Chili powder: Brings a mild heat and smokiness to the dish, balancing the flavors and adding a touch of spice.
- Salsa: Adds a zesty and tangy kick, as well as moisture and flavor to the layers in the mason jar.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a rich and creamy texture, along with a savory and salty flavor.
- Fresh cilantro: Brightens up the dish with its fresh and citrusy flavor, adding a pop of herbaceous freshness.
One interesting fact about this mason jar meal recipe is that you can customize the ingredients to create different flavor profiles. Try adding diced avocado, cooked chicken, or even roasted sweet potatoes for a unique twist on this versatile dish.
Essential Tools for Making Instant Pot Mason Jar Recipes
- Instant Pot: Essential for cooking the quinoa quickly and efficiently.
- Mason jars: Perfect for assembling and storing the individual portions of the meal.
Common Questions About Preparing Instant Pot Mason Jar Meals
Serves: 4 people
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 3/4 cups water
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- In the Instant Pot, combine quinoa and water. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 1 minute. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a large bowl.
- Add black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the quinoa. Mix well.
- In 4 mason jars, layer the quinoa mixture, salsa, cheese, and cilantro.
- Close the jars and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To serve, heat the jar in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Nutritional value:
Per Serving in Calories: 380 kcal | Carbohydrates: 55 g | Protein: 16 g | Total Fat: 11 g | Saturated Fat: 5 g | Trans Fat: 0 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g | Cholesterol: 25 mg | Sodium: 650 mg | Dietary Fiber: 10 g | Sugar: 5 g | Calcium: 250 mg | Potassium: 600 mg | Iron: 4 mg | Vitamin A: 800 µg | Vitamin C: 45 mg
Tips for Prepping and Freezing Mason Jar Meals Ahead of Time
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the quinoa mixture as directed in the recipe.
- Layer the mixture in mason jars as instructed.
- Store the jars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Leave out the salsa, cheese, and cilantro.
- Fill freezer-safe containers with the quinoa mixture.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and adding salsa, cheese, and cilantro.
