Description
This vibrant and refreshing salad made popular by Jennifer Aniston is a delicious mix of quinoa (or bulgur), chickpeas, crisp cucumbers, fresh herbs, pistachios, and feta. Dressed simply with lemon and olive oil, it’s protein-packed, nutrient-rich, and perfect for meal prep or light lunches.
Ingredients
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1 cup uncooked quinoa (or bulgur wheat)
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2 cups water
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1 cup cucumber, chopped
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1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
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1/3 cup red onion, chopped
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1/2 cup roasted and salted pistachios, chopped
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1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
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2 lemons, juiced (about 5–6 tbsp)
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
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Sea salt, to taste
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Ground black pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
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Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, bring quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 12–15 minutes until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Let cool.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa (or bulgur), cucumber, parsley, mint, red onion, pistachios, and chickpeas.
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Add lemon juice and olive oil. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
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Toss gently to combine. Add crumbled feta on top.
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Chill before serving for best flavor, or serve immediately.
Notes
Use bulgur for a more traditional tabbouleh-style base if preferred.
Can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days — great for meal prep!
For a dairy-free version, omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad, Lunch
- Method: Boiling, Chilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Keywords: Jennifer Aniston salad, quinoa salad, healthy lunch, chickpea salad, meal prep salad