Spring Farro Salad

Short Description

Spring Farro Salad is a fresh, hearty dish that blends the nutty texture of farro with crisp spring vegetables, bright herbs, and a tangy lemon dressing. It’s a perfect combination of flavor and nutrition, ideal for both everyday meals and special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Celebrates the best of spring produce like asparagus, peas, and radishes
• Farro adds a satisfying chew and is packed with fiber and nutrients
• Easily served warm or chilled
• Ideal for meal prep—flavors develop beautifully over time
• Highly customizable with various herbs, vegetables, or proteins

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup uncooked farro
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 4 radishes, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook the farro according to package instructions until tender. Drain and let cool.
2. Blanch the asparagus and peas in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp and bright green. Rinse with cold water and drain.
3. In a large bowl, combine the farro, asparagus, peas, radishes, dill, and mint.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Gently fold in the feta cheese.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein
• Substitute farro with quinoa, barley, or couscous
• Replace feta with goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free version
• Use basil, parsley, or chives in place of dill and mint
• Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or roasted red peppers for more color and crunch

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Best served cold, but can be gently reheated in a skillet over low heat if desired
• Add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil before serving to refresh the flavor

FAQs

What is farro?

Farro is an ancient whole grain with a chewy texture and nutty flavor, rich in fiber and nutrients.

Can I use another grain instead of farro?

Yes, quinoa, barley, or bulgur can be used as alternatives to farro.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Farro contains gluten, but you can substitute it with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or brown rice.

Do I need to blanch the vegetables?

Blanching helps preserve the color and crispness of the asparagus and peas, but it is optional.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, it holds up well in the fridge and can be made up to 2–3 days ahead.

What can I use instead of feta?

Try goat cheese, shaved Parmesan, or a dairy-free cheese substitute.

How do I keep the vegetables from becoming soggy?

Ensure all ingredients are well-drained and cooled before mixing to maintain a crisp texture.

Can I add fruit to this salad?

Yes, sliced strawberries or pomegranate seeds can add a refreshing sweetness.

Is this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

What dressing alternatives work well?

A balsamic vinaigrette or a mustard-based dressing can also pair nicely with the ingredients.

Conclusion

Spring Farro Salad is a vibrant and nourishing option for any occasion, offering a satisfying mix of whole grains, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs. Whether served as a main or side dish, it delivers on taste, texture, and nutrition, making it a standout addition to your seasonal recipe collection.

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