Name: Ina Garten Farro Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 2 cups water or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Ina Garten’s Farro Salad is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With chewy farro, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this salad delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Serve it as a side dish or a light main course, and it’s sure to be a hit. In this guide, I’ll show you how to create this wholesome and satisfying salad at home.

What is Ina Garten Farro Salad?

Ina Garten’s Farro Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that highlights the nutty flavor of farro, an ancient grain. The salad typically includes fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs, all tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette. This versatile salad can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a great option for year-round enjoyment.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Nutritious and Filling: Farro is packed with fiber and protein, making this salad both satisfying and nutritious.
Fresh Flavors: The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs gives this salad a bright and refreshing taste.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad is quick and easy to make.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a base for adding grilled chicken or fish.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Farro Salad

1 cup farro
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions to Make Ina Garten Farro Salad

Cook the Farro: In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the farro, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the farro is cooking, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked farro with the chopped vegetables and herbs.
Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Finish with Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad.
Serve: Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate for later use.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Farro Salad

Grilled Chicken: Adds protein and pairs well with the fresh flavors of the salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Complements the nuttiness of the farro and adds more variety to the dish.
Pita Bread: Serve alongside for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Grilled Fish: Light and healthy, it pairs perfectly with this vibrant salad.
Hummus: A creamy dip that goes well with the salad’s fresh ingredients.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten Farro Salad

Rinse the Farro: Rinse the Farro under cold water before cooking to remove any excess starch.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint are key to the salad’s bright flavor, so don’t skip them.
Cook Farro to Perfection: Ensure the farro is tender but still slightly chewy for the best texture.
Chill if Desired: For a cold salad, allow the farro to cool completely before mixing with the other ingredients.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day ahead; just add the dressing and feta cheese before serving.

Variations of Ina Garten Farro Salad

Add Roasted Veggies: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant can add more depth of flavor.
Incorporate Nuts: Add toasted almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts for a crunchy texture.
Swap the Cheese: Try using goat cheese or mozzarella instead of feta.
Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
Mix in Fruits: Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a touch of sweetness.
Use Different Grains: If you don’t have Farro, try using barley or quinoa as a substitute.

Storing Ina Garten Farro Salad: Best Practices

Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Dressing on the Side: If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving.
Keep Feta Fresh: Add feta cheese only when ready to serve to keep it from becoming soggy.
Stir Before Serving: Give the salad a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.
Avoid Freezing: Farro salad is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can alter the texture.

Reheating Ina Garten Farro Salad: Best Practices

Serve Cold or Room Temperature: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.
Let it Warm Up Slightly: If refrigerated, let the salad sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Freshen it Up: Add a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil to refresh the flavors if needed.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 240
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 250mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 6g

FAQs

What does Farro Salad do for you?

Farro Salad provides a nutritious and balanced meal packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. The ancient grain farro is rich in complex carbohydrates, which helps keep you full and energized. Combined with fresh vegetables and a light dressing, Farro Salad supports digestion, heart health, and overall wellness, making it a healthy and satisfying choice.

Where did Farro Salad originate?

Farro Salad has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Italy, where farro has been a staple grain for centuries. The ancient Romans and Etruscans commonly used farro in various dishes, including salads. Over time, Farro Salad has gained popularity worldwide for its hearty texture, nutty flavor, and versatility.

How can I make Ina Garten Farro Salad gluten-free?

To make Ina Garten’s Farro Salad gluten-free, simply replace the Farro with a gluten-free grain such as quinoa, brown rice, or millet. These grains offer a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dressing just as well.

Can I make Ina Garten Farro Salad ahead of time?

Yes, Ina Garten’s Farro Salad can be made ahead of time. Prepare the salad and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best results, keep the dressing and feta cheese separate until just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

What can I use instead of feta cheese in Ina Garten Farro Salad?

If you’re not a fan of feta cheese or need a substitute, you can use goat cheese, mozzarella, or even ricotta salata. Each of these options offers a different flavor profile but will complement the salad nicely.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Farro Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of farro with the freshness of vegetables and herbs. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light main course, this salad is sure to please. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making time and time again. Enjoy this vibrant Farro Salad and happy cooking!

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