This salad isn’t just trendy—it’s genuinely delicious and filling. It’s full of plant-based protein, fiber, and refreshing textures that come together in every bite. It’s quick to make, can be customized easily, and holds up well in the fridge. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a nutritious side dish, this salad delivers both taste and nutrition.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
bulgur wheat chickpeas (canned or cooked from dry) cucumber red onion fresh parsley fresh mint feta cheese pistachios olive oil lemon juice salt black pepper
Directions
Cook the bulgur wheat according to package instructions, then let it cool completely.
While the bulgur cools, finely chop the cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked bulgur, chickpeas, chopped vegetables, and herbs.
Add crumbled feta cheese and chopped pistachios.
Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Toss everything gently to combine.
Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for later.
Servings and timing
This salad serves 4 to 6 people and takes approximately 10 minutes to prep, with an additional 10-15 minutes to cook and cool the bulgur wheat. Total time is about 25 minutes.
Variations
Grain Swap: Substitute quinoa, couscous, or farro in place of bulgur for a different texture.
Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for a protein boost.
Dairy-Free: Omit the feta or use a plant-based feta alternative.
Nut-Free: Swap pistachios with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
Extra Veggies: Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for more color and nutrients.
Storage/Reheating
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It actually tastes better as it sits, allowing the flavors to meld. This salad is not suitable for freezing. Reheating is not necessary—serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
What makes this the “Jennifer Aniston Salad”?
It’s based on a salad she reportedly ate daily while filming Friends. Over time, fans recreated it with a combination of her favorite healthy ingredients.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge for several days.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Not by default, since bulgur is made from wheat. To make it gluten-free, use quinoa or brown rice instead.
What type of cucumber should I use?
English or Persian cucumbers work best as they’re less watery and don’t require peeling.
Can I use canned chickpeas?
Absolutely. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the salad.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this salad?
No, freezing is not recommended as the fresh vegetables and herbs will lose their texture.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are highly recommended for this salad’s flavor, but in a pinch, use dried—just reduce the amount by one-third.
What can I use instead of pistachios?
Almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds make great alternatives.
Is feta cheese necessary?
No, you can leave it out or use a dairy-free alternative to suit your preferences.
Conclusion
The Jennifer Aniston Salad is a wholesome, refreshing dish that combines vibrant ingredients into a flavorful, satisfying meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a light lunch, this salad is versatile, easy to customize, and loaded with nutritional benefits. Once you try it, you’ll see why it became a daily favorite for Jennifer—and might just become yours too.
The Jennifer Aniston Salad is a fresh, protein-packed, and nutrient-rich salad made famous by the actress herself. With a base of bulgur wheat, chickpeas, cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a lemony dressing, this salad is light, refreshing, and perfect for meal prep or healthy lunches.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Salad
Method:No-Cook / Minimal Cooking
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup bulgur wheat, uncooked
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup chopped cucumber
1/3 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup chopped fresh mint
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
1/4 cup chopped pistachios
Juice of 1–2 lemons
2–3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook bulgur wheat according to package instructions. Let it cool completely.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled bulgur, chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, parsley, mint, and pistachios.
Add crumbled feta if using.
Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
Toss everything together until well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
Use quinoa instead of bulgur for a gluten-free option.Omit feta for a fully vegan version.Make it ahead — flavors improve after chilling.Great for meal prep — lasts 3–4 days in the fridge.Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.
