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Homemade The Jennifer Aniston Salad recipe photo

The Jennifer Aniston Salad

This Jennifer Aniston Salad is a fresh, vibrant mix of quinoa, chickpeas, and herbs, topped with a zesty dressing!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa
  • 1 can chickpeas drained and rinsed (15 ounces)
  • 1 small cucumber diced (about 1 cup)
  • 0.5 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 0.5 cup fresh Italian parsley finely chopped
  • 0.5 cup fresh mint leaves finely chopped
  • 0.5 cup roasted pistachios finely chopped
  • 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
  • 1 medium lemon for zest and juice
  • 2 lemons for juice
  • 0.5 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 teaspoon fine salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Can opener
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bitterness. Cook it according to package instructions, usually in a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio. Bring the water to a boil, add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until all the water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  3. While the quinoa is cooling, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion, parsley, and mint leaves. Set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, drained chickpeas, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, parsley, mint, and roasted pistachios.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, and gently toss until everything is well coated.
  6. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and give it another gentle toss to incorporate without breaking it down too much.
  7. You can serve The Jennifer Aniston Salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy as a standalone meal or pair with grilled chicken or fish.

Notes

  • Rinse the quinoa thoroughly to avoid bitterness.
  • Adjust lemon juice based on your acidity preference.
  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
  • Let the salad sit before serving to develop flavors.