Jennifer Aniston Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love the Jennifer Aniston Salad for its vibrant colors, delicious combination of flavors, and satisfying texture. The quinoa provides a hearty base, while the chickpeas and pistachios offer plant-based protein and crunch. The lemon dressing gives a perfect zesty kick, and the fresh parsley and mint elevate the salad with an herby freshness. It’s so easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add or adjust ingredients based on your preferences!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

1 cup dry quinoa

15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 English cucumber, chopped

1/2 small red onion, minced

1/2 cup packed fresh parsley, finely chopped

1/2 cup loosely-packed fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

1/2 cup roasted salted pistachios, chopped

1 cup crumbled feta cheese (4 oz)

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Dressing:

1/2 cup lemon juice (~3-4 lemons)

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon honey

Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Lemon Dressing:

In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, or a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

Shake the jar or whisk the ingredients in the bowl until well combined.

For the Salad:

In a small saucepan, add the chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the broth has been absorbed.

Fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a storage container or large mixing bowl to cool. Refrigerate until chilled, ideally for a few hours or overnight.

Once the quinoa is chilled, add it to a large mixing bowl along with the chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, parsley, mint, pistachios, and feta cheese.

Drizzle with the lemon dressing, then toss everything together to combine. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 servings

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: To make this salad more filling, I sometimes add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.

Make it Vegan: To make the salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based alternative, or skip it entirely for a lighter version.

Add More Veggies: If I want to add more crunch and flavor, I sometimes throw in bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots.

Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is already gluten-free, but be sure to use certified gluten-free quinoa if you have any gluten sensitivities.

Storage

The Jennifer Aniston Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve over time, so it’s perfect for meal prep.

If you want to keep the quinoa salad fresh, store the dressing separately and add it right before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make the quinoa and dressing ahead of time and assemble the salad when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use regular quinoa instead of pre-rinsed quinoa?

I recommend using pre-rinsed quinoa for a smoother texture, but if you only have regular quinoa, just rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.

Can I skip the feta cheese?

Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free option, you can skip the feta. For extra flavor, you could add nutritional yeast or a few tablespoons of vegan cheese if you’d like.

How do I make this salad spicier?

If I want to add a bit of heat, I add some finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salad. You could also drizzle a bit of sriracha or hot sauce over the top.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately and mix it in when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Jennifer Aniston Salad is a fresh, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its healthy ingredients, including quinoa, chickpeas, pistachios, and a tangy lemon dressing, this salad is packed with protein and nutrients. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side dish, it’s sure to be a hit. It’s easy to make, customizable, and can be prepared in advance, making it a go-to recipe for busy days or when you want a satisfying, nutritious meal. Enjoy!

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