Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for a fast meal.
Nutritious and satisfying: Quinoa and chickpeas provide protein, while fresh veggies and herbs add crunch and flavor.
Versatile: It’s a great base for customization, whether you want to add extra protein, veggies, or switch up the dressing.
Meal prep-friendly: This salad holds up well in the fridge for several days, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

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

Salad

2 cups cooked quinoa
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup chopped cucumber (English cucumber preferred)
½ cup diced red onion
½ cup shelled pistachios
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup golden raisins
¼ cup sliced Kalamata olives (optional but recommended)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup chopped fresh mint
3 tbsp chopped fresh dill

Dressing

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
½ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

Cook quinoa in advance and let it cool.
Chop the cucumber, onion, and herbs. Rinse and drain the chickpeas.

Step 2: Combine in Bowl

Add the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, pistachios, feta, raisins, olives (if using), parsley, mint, and dill to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a mason jar or small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), kosher salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Toss & Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything together until well combined.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. This salad is great chilled!

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Customization Ideas

Grains: Substitute quinoa with bulgur, farro, or brown rice for a different texture.
Herbs: Try cilantro or basil instead of mint and dill for a different flavor profile.
Nuts: Use almonds, pecans, or cashews in place of pistachios for a different crunch.
Add-Ons: Include cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or scallions for added freshness.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tuna, or salmon to turn this into a complete meal.
Vegan Option: Omit the feta or use plant-based cheese, and substitute honey with maple syrup.

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

Storage: Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Prepping in advance: Cook the quinoa up to 3 days ahead of time.
Dressing: Make the dressing up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate it in a jar.
Herbs: Chop the herbs just before serving for the best flavor and freshness.

FAQs

1. Is this salad healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with fiber, protein, healthy fats, and vitamins from the quinoa, chickpeas, fresh veggies, and herbs.

2. How many calories per serving?

Approximately 400 calories per serving, depending on the exact ingredients used.

3. Can I make it without quinoa?

Absolutely! You can substitute the quinoa with bulgur, brown rice, or any grain of your choice.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, to make it vegan, simply omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese, and substitute honey with maple syrup.

5. How long will this salad last in the fridge?

This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it great for meal prep.

6. Can I add more protein?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, tuna, or even chickpeas or tofu to increase the protein content.

7. What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even roasted sweet potatoes to make the salad heartier.

8. Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, almonds, cashews, or pecans would also work great in this salad for a different flavor and crunch.

9. How do I make the quinoa ahead of time?

Simply cook the quinoa according to package instructions, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use.

10. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can whisk up the dressing up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

The Viral Jennifer Aniston Salad is a refreshing, nutritious, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its combination of quinoa, chickpeas, feta, and fresh herbs, this salad is a great choice for meal prep, a light lunch, or as a side dish. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and can be easily customized to fit your dietary preferences. Give it a try and see why it’s become so popular!