It was a sun-drenched afternoon when I first discovered the beauty of farro while wandering through a vibrant farmer’s market. The earthy aroma of freshly harvested grains drew me in, and I was captivated by the nutty flavor and chewy texture of farro. This ancient grain has a rich history, having been a staple in the Mediterranean diet for centuries. Inspired by my market adventure, I decided to create a salad that celebrates farro and the delightful produce of the season. The result is a vibrant, wholesome Farro Fiesta Salad, bursting with colors and flavors that make every bite feel like a celebration.
Ingredients
1 cup farro
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
1 avocado, diced
Juice of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 orange
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by rinsing the farro under cold water to remove any excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed farro and vegetable broth (or water) over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, until the farro is tender but still chewy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside to cool.
While the farro is cooking, prepare the vibrant vegetables for your salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. The colors of the vegetables will create a stunning visual that will have your guests excited for what’s to come.
Next, whip up the citrus vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, orange juice, and olive oil until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This vinaigrette adds a zesty brightness that complements the earthiness of the farro beautifully.
Once the farro has cooled, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the citrus vinaigrette over the mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring every ingredient is coated in that refreshing dressing.
For an extra layer of flavor, fold in the diced avocado and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top if desired. The creamy avocado and salty feta create a delightful contrast with the crunchy vegetables and chewy farro.
Serve the Farro Fiesta Salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional parsley if desired. This salad is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a satisfying meal prep option for the week ahead. Each bite transports you to that sunny market day, celebrating the vibrant flavors of the season.