Jennifer Aniston Mediterranean Salad (Printable)

A fresh blend of quinoa, veggies, herbs, chickpeas, feta, and pistachios tossed in lemony olive oil.

# Ingredient List:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup dry quinoa or bulgur
02 - 2 cups water

→ Vegetables and Herbs

03 - 1 cup cucumber, diced
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
06 - 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
07 - 1/3 cup fresh mint, chopped

→ Protein and Cheese

08 - 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
09 - 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

→ Nuts and Seeds

10 - 1/3 cup roasted pistachios, roughly chopped

→ Dressing

11 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
12 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice
13 - 1 clove garlic, minced
14 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Directions:

01 - Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and allow to cool.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, add cooled quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, mint, chickpeas, feta cheese, and roasted pistachios.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and ground black pepper until emulsified.
04 - Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until thoroughly combined.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature as preferred.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep
  • Packed with plant protein and naturally gluten-free
  • Layered with fresh texture and flavor from vegetables and herbs
  • Filling enough for a main course but lovely as a side
02 -
  • High source of plant protein thanks to quinoa and chickpeas
  • Packed with fiber and vitamins from fresh vegetables and herbs
  • Naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan
03 -
  • Let the salad cool fully before adding your herbs so they stay bright and fresh.
  • Always toast or buy freshly roasted pistachios for maximum crunch.
  • Do not skip rinsing the quinoa as it removes the natural saponin and prevents bitterness.
  • A sprinkle of extra mint on top just before serving makes it even more fragrant.

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