Jennifer Aniston Salad

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This delicious quinoa salad is often referred to as the ‘Jennifer Aniston Salad’ after word spread that this was the salad she ate everyday for 10 years whilst filming ‘Friends’ (I think she later said it wasn’t, but the name has still stuck!). Whether the rumours are true or not, it is such a good combination that it isn’t hard to believe that someone would tuck into it on a daily basis (like I did very happily whilst developing this recipe). It is so light and refreshing, yet still feels hearty and nourishing thanks to the quinoa and chickpeas. If you are looking for a nutritious lunch or simple supper, this is the recipe for you…

My version of the Jennifer Aniston Salad must be one of the simplest, and most delicious, salads you will ever make. There is just something about the combination of nutty quinoa, fresh herbs, crisp cucumber and crunchy pistachios, scattered with salty feta, all tossed in the most gorgeous garlicky-honey-lemon dressing that is just too good to resist. Although it literally takes minutes to whip up, you can also prep ahead of time and enjoy it for a packed lunch (a bit like my Greek Pasta Salad) - it just gives extra time for the delicious flavours to infuse. I sometimes add a handful of rocket leaves at the last minute for an extra hit of peppery flavour.

Why you'll love this Jennifer Aniston Salad:

It is so quick and easy to put together and takes less than 10 minutes.
It is nutritious and full of protein, fibre and vegetables.
Full of flavours and textures thanks to the zesty lemon, salty feta, sweet honey, nutty pistachios and fresh herbs.
You can make ahead and let the dressing infuse its delicious flavours.
It is so versatile - you can enjoy getting creative with the vegetables, pulses and herbs to really make this recipe your own.

You will need the following ingredients:

Olive oil - this adds a lovely flavour to the salad, you could use extra virgin olive oil to make it even more delicious.

Garlic - raw garlic has a much stronger flavour, so I have kept to ½ a garlic clove. You could add more if you prefer a more intense garlic flavour.

Runny honey - a drizzle of honey adds a delicious sweetness to the dressing.

Lemon - this adds such wonderfully zingy, zesty flavour to the dressing that really lifts the whole salad.

Salt - I recommend Maldon Salt for the best flavour. You could use their chilli flavour for a bit of extra heat or their garlic one for a stronger garlic flavour.

Black pepper - freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of warmth. You could use mixed peppercorns for a more complex flavour profile.

Quinoa - I love using quinoa in salads. It has a deliciously nutty flavour and is super nutritious too!

Cucumber - for added crunch and freshness. You can use baby cucumbers if you like.

Fresh herbs - the combination of mint and parsley brings a delicious herby flavour to the salad. You can experiment with your favourites - chives and coriander both work well too.

Red onion - this has a milder flavour than regular onions. You could use spring onions, if you prefer.

Pistachios - sprinkling of chopped pistachios adds a wonderfully crunchy texture to this salad. You can swap out for all sorts of nuts - hazelnuts, almonds and cashews all work well (toast gently to really bring out the flavour!).

Chickpeas - delicious nuggets of goodness. I love using the Bold Bean Co chickpeas for the very best flavour and texture.

Feta - this adds saltiness, you could add crumbled goats cheese if you prefer.

See recipe card for the exact recipe with a full list of ingredients and measurements

Substitutions and Variations:

Vegetables: you can use all sorts of different vegetables in this salad, diced peppers, sliced cherry tomatoes, even chopped roasted beetroot, would all work really well. Have fun trying out new flavour combinations.
Runny honey: simply swap for maple syrup if making for vegans.
Chickpeas: you can ring the changes with all sorts of beans; kidney beans, black beans, butter beans… they all work really well (I love experimenting with the various jars on offer from Bold Bean Co.).
Quinoa: quinoa has a delicious nutty flavour, but you could use bulgur wheat, couscous, giant couscous, millet or even orzo. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and leave to cool completely before adding in the veg.
Chilli flakes: add a pinch of dried chilli flakes for a delicious spicy kick!

Cooking Tips:

Taste: it is really important to taste the dressing and salad as you go and adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes. You can add more lemon, oil, salt or pepper depending on whether you want it zestier, saltier etc.
Make ahead: you can make this ahead and pop it in a tupperware ready to enjoy for lunch the following day - the flavours will develop and get even more delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with this Jennifer Aniston Salad?

This is a delicious main meal which doesn’t really need anything else with it - or you could serve it as part of a spread with a selection of salads like my Marinated Mozzarella Balls and Roasted Aubergine Salad.

Other recipes you may enjoy:

If you like the sound of this Jennifer Aniston Salad, you will love my Greek Pasta Salad full of delicious summer flavours that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean (it is another recipe which is ideal to prep ahead for a packed lunch). If you were looking for more quinoa inspiration, my Chicken Caesar Salad with Quinoa, Kale and Crunchy Walnuts is packed full of crunchy textures and has a super simple, but still utterly delicious, dressing. I also have lots of tasty salad recipes with lentils, like my Hot Honey Halloumi Salad with Basil Dressing (so good you will be making it on repeat) and my Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Hummus and Nutty Lentil Salad. Ok, the latter isn’t technically a salad, but it is filled with one (and a delicious one at that! Who could resist the combination of lentils, pomegranate, feta and mint in a perfectly roasted sweet potato?)...

Made this recipe and loved it?

I would love love LOVE if you could leave a review in the comments… I love hearing what you thought, any changes you made, the stories behind what made you try my recipes. Also, if you share a photo on instagram, please tag me @desertislanddishes, it makes my day to see you making my creations!