Jennifer Aniston Salad is a fresh, gluten free quinoa salad packed with chickpeas, herbs, feta, and pistachios. This healthy vegetarian summer salad is protein-rich, meal-prep friendly, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

Table of Contents
Introduction
Jennifer Aniston Salad became wildly popular after fans discovered the healthy meal she reportedly enjoyed for years while filming Friends. This Jennifer Aniston Salad combines fluffy quinoa, crisp cucumbers, fresh herbs, creamy feta, and crunchy pistachios into one vibrant, protein-rich bowl. Unlike traditional couscous versions, this gluten free Jennifer Aniston Salad uses quinoa, making it suitable for more dietary needs while keeping the texture light and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a healthy summer couscous salad alternative that feels fresh, colorful, and filling without being heavy, this recipe delivers. It works beautifully as a vegetarian main dish, meal prep lunch, or side for grilled proteins.
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Jennifer Aniston Salad – Fresh and Gluten Free Quinoa Bowl
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A fresh Jennifer Aniston Salad made with quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, feta, pistachios, and lemon dressing. Gluten free and perfect for summer.
Ingredients
1 cup dry quinoa
2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained
1 English cucumber, diced
1/2 small red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup fresh parsley, packed
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup roasted salted pistachios, chopped
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Rinse quinoa and cook in stock for 15 minutes. Let cool.
2. Dice cucumber, onion, and chop herbs.
3. Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt and pepper.
4. Combine quinoa, chickpeas, vegetables, herbs, feta, and pistachios.
5. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently.
6. Chill 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For vegan option omit feta.
Salad keeps fresh up to 4 days refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Below is a detailed breakdown of everything you need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Quinoa | 1 cup | Gluten-free base |
| Chicken or Vegetable Stock | 2 cups | Adds depth of flavor |
| Chickpeas (15 oz can) | 1 can, drained | Plant protein & texture |
| English Cucumber | 1, diced | Fresh crunch |
| Red Onion | 1/2 small, finely diced | Sharp bite |
| Fresh Parsley | 1/2 cup packed | Herbal brightness |
| Fresh Mint | 1/2 cup loosely packed | Fresh summer flavor |
| Feta Cheese | 1 cup crumbled | Creamy saltiness |
| Pistachios (roasted salted) | 1/2 cup chopped | Crunch & richness |
| Lemon Juice | 1/2 cup | Fresh acidity |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/2 cup | Smooth dressing base |
| Honey | 1 tbsp | Balances acidity |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Seasoning |

Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. Cook the Quinoa
Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Combine with stock in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and cool completely.
Tip: Spread quinoa on a baking sheet to cool faster. - 2. Prepare Vegetables and Herbs
Dice cucumber finely, mince red onion, chop parsley and mint.
Tip: Soak red onion in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness. - 3. Mix the Dressing
Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. - 4. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl combine cooled quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, onion, herbs, feta, and pistachios. - 5. Dress and Toss
Pour dressing over salad and toss gently. - 6. Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate at least 30 minutes for flavors to develop.
Helpful Tips
- Use vegetable stock for vegetarian version.
- Make it vegan by omitting feta.
- Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Store up to 4 days refrigerated.
Conclusion
Jennifer Aniston Salad is a fresh, protein-rich, gluten free quinoa salad that works for meal prep, summer gatherings, and everyday healthy eating. With simple ingredients and bright Mediterranean flavors, it delivers texture, balance, and satisfaction in every bite.
FAQ
Is Jennifer Aniston Salad gluten free?
Yes, this version uses quinoa instead of couscous.
Can I meal prep Jennifer Aniston Salad?
Yes, it stays fresh up to 4 days refrigerated.
Can I replace quinoa with couscous?
Yes, but it will no longer be gluten free.
Is this the original Jennifer Aniston Friends salad recipe?
This version reflects the viral modern adaptation made with quinoa.