Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Jennifer Aniston Salad is a fresh, wholesome, and protein-rich dish made famous for being her go-to lunch during her time on Friends. Packed with quinoa, chickpeas, crunchy cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a light lemony dressing, this salad is filling yet light—perfect for meal prep, lunch on the go, or a healthy side. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and full of texture and flavor.

ingredients

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

quinoa
canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
cucumber
red onion
fresh parsley
fresh mint
feta cheese (optional)
pistachios
lemon juice
olive oil
salt
black pepper

directions

Cook quinoa according to package instructions, then let cool completely.

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, finely chopped cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.

Add crumbled feta cheese and chopped pistachios.

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking/cooling time for quinoa: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Swap quinoa for bulgur, couscous, or farro.
Add diced avocado for creaminess.
Use almonds or walnuts instead of pistachios.
Include cherry tomatoes or arugula for extra freshness.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
No reheating required—this salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

FAQs

Is this the exact salad Jennifer Aniston ate?
It’s a popular version based on interviews and what she shared—though she might’ve made tweaks over time.

Is it vegetarian or vegan?
It’s vegetarian, and can be made vegan by skipping or substituting the feta cheese.

Can I use canned quinoa?
Yes, pre-cooked quinoa can save time—just rinse and let it drain well before using.

Does it work for meal prep?
Absolutely, it holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better as the flavors meld.

Can I add protein?
Yes, grilled chicken, tofu, or hard-boiled eggs make great additions.

Conclusion

The Jennifer Aniston Salad is a vibrant, satisfying, and nourishing dish that proves healthy eating can be simple and delicious. With its mix of grains, legumes, herbs, and nuts, it’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.