How do I stop my packed lunch salad from going soggy?

Question

I am trying to lose weight and therefore have started to take salads to college. I buy a prewashed spinach, watercress, and rocket mixed salad from Asda, because it's easy and convenient. I usually put this is a clip-lock container, and I usually break up some mozzarella cheese into it. However, what looks really delicious and healthy in the morning ends up looking disgusting and soggy by lunchtime =(

I make the salad every morning and DONT use dressing. I sometimes just sprinkle a little salt, for flavour, but not all the time.

I carry it in my bag as there is no fridge to store it. Also, my bag is heavy enough, so I dont want to carry additional containers with me.

I have heard that lemon juice can help, but wont the acidity make the salad wilt faster??

All advice and suggestions are much appreciated!

Thanx...=)

Answer 1

Try adding a couple of crackers to the box or a slice of bread.

When you come to eat your salad toss the cracker or bread (which hopefully will have absorbed some of the excess moistness).

You should be left with a nicely dressed crisp salad.

Answer 2

I think these are what you are doing wrong:

Do not add salt or any dressing to your salad, only add when you are ready to eat. Salt turns to liquid and salt combined with the dressing will make the greens go soggy. Lemon will also make the greens go soggy.

If you must take a salad, you have to have the condiments separate and only add when you are ready to eat.

Other than that take sandwiches.

Answer 3

To prevent the sogginess, you'll have to pack the ingredients separately in separate ziplock baggies, those disposable ones. Then combine everything when you're ready to sit down to eat. Be absolutely sure your salad greens are dry when you pack them. The following tips should help:



http://www.ehow.com/how_7709420_prevent-soggy-salads-lunch.html





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Answer 4

I would keep the mozzarella cheese in a different little bag. Do you put in veggies on the salad? If so, I would keep them in different bags.

Answer 5

Lettuce should stay cold for maximum crispiness. I suggest getting a few lunchbox ice packs to keep everything cool.