Jennifer Aniston Salad
A crunchy, herb-forward salad featuring protein-rich quinoa, chickpeas, fresh herbs, and feta, perfect for make-ahead meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup dry quinoa Rinsed to remove bitterness.
- 15 oz can chickpeas Drained and rinsed.
- 1 English cucumber chopped Seeded if very watery.
- 1/2 small red onion Minced (or substitute 2–3 tbsp scallion).
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley Finely chopped.
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves Finely chopped.
- 1/2 cup roasted salted pistachios Chopped (or toasted almonds for a swap).
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese About 4 oz; goat cheese is a creamier alternative.
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.
Lemon Dressing
- 1/2 cup lemon juice About 3–4 lemons.
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil For dressing.
- 1 Tablespoon honey Use maple syrup for a vegan option.
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple), and a pinch of salt and pepper until slightly emulsified. Taste and adjust acidity or sweetness.
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. Combine with the stock in a small saucepan, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Spread on a sheet tray to cool faster.
Combine Ingredients
- While quinoa cools, chop cucumber, mince red onion, and finely chop parsley and mint. Roughly chop pistachios and crumble the feta.
- Toss cooled quinoa with the lemon dressing to soak up flavor. Fold in chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, herbs, pistachios, and most of the feta. Reserve a little feta and pistachio for garnish.
Serve
- Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper. Chill for 30 minutes if you want it cold; serve at room temperature if serving immediately.
Notes
This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Add fresh herbs before serving leftovers. Can be served with grilled chicken or as a side at gatherings.