The Viral Jennifer Aniston Salad Recipe With a Twist

This is our spin on the famous salad that took social media by storm with claims that Jennifer Aniston ate it everyday while filming Friends. Turns out the viral Jennifer Aniston salad myth was debunked by the actress herself, claiming that while it looks like a delicious salad, it is not the one she ate each day on the set of Friends. It's not surprising we all want the scoop on this viral salad recipe that the beautiful Jennifer Aniston supposedly ate. If we eat it too won't that be the formula to looking like her? Not so much, but it is a delicious, healthy salad packed with flavor, fresh vegetables, herbs, fiber and healthy fats even if it isn't truly a celebrity salad.

There is a plot twist in that Jennifer Aniston did share that she and fellow Friends stars, Lisa Kudrow and Courtney Cox, did in fact indulge in the same salad every day while filming. It was a Cobb salad made up of chicken, lettuce, turkey bacon, egg whites, garbanzo beans, pecorino cheese and vinegarette. Sounds equally delicious and a salad recipe we'll plan to recreate here on Feed Me Fiber. 

For now, we've put our own twist on the original version of viral recipe for Jennifer Aniston's salad (that's not really her salad). Regardless of who did or didn't invent the original recipe, it's still sure to become your new favorite salad. 

Ingredients Needed

Bulgur wheat: Bulgur is made from cracked wheat kernels and is an ancient grain, having been consumed by mankind for over 4000 years. It is a good source of both fiber and protein and has a slightly nutty flavor. 

Cucumber: Any variety of crunchy cucumbers works for this recipe, but may I recommend using Persian cucumbers if you can find them? They are smaller, relatively seedless and have a thinner skin that makes them easier to digest. 

Kale: This can be a controversial green as some find it slightly bitter and tough. Chopping it very finely like an herb is a great trick to still get the health benefits from the veggie without feeling like you're endlessly chomping like a cow. I am a big fan of kale and love using the lacinato variety from my garden.

Red Onion: Red onion is recommended for this recipe as it lends itself to the Meditteranean flavors of this dish while providing a sharp bite to balance out the other ingredients.

Feta Cheese: This salty Greek cheese is divine in this salad and you'll be unconciously mining for pieces of it in every bite. I buy it precrumbled to make life easier. Opt for a fat free or reduced fat version to keep fat grams lower if desired.

Chickpeas: These little guys are packed with protein and fiber and are very mild in flavor. 

Pistachios: Shelled pistchios add the perfect crunch to this salad while adding in additional healthy fats. I always keep a bag of Trader Joe's shelled, salted and roasted pistachios on hand for snacking or adding as a salad goodie. I think they actually call them pistachio nutmeats which is just not as appetizing to me.

Herbs: Don't skimp on the fresh parsley and fresh mint. These flavors pack so much into this salad and transport you to that Meditteranean state of mind. Think the island of Crete or the shores of Sicily. Okay maybe not really but we can dream.

Dressing: This is a simple lemon dressing made up of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Perfection in its flavor and simpllicity.

Substitutions and Serving Suggestions

If you're looking to go gluten free, swap out bulgur wheat for quinoa. It's a good option to still get a high dose of fiber and protein and it tastes fantastic as a substitute. If looking to pack in more protein, add chicken breast to the salad. Consider adding a smidge more dressing if you do so. Don't like chickpeas or in a pinch? Black beans make a great swap and are full of fiber and iron to boot. If pistachios aren't your fave, easily swap them for sunflower seeds or sliced almonds. And lastly, if you don't like cucumbers or are looking for additional veggies to add to the salad, consider yellow bell pepper as a crunchy, sweet addition. 

In terms of serving this yummy salad, it is perfect for meal prep as you can make it ahead and eat over the course of the week. I love to enjoy this salad on top of more greens including lettuce and spinach. If adding chicken breast, put it in a lavash wrap, add a smidge of dijon mustard and you've got a yummy Mediterranean wrap.

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