Best Farro Salad
Whenever someone asks me to bring a side to a summer party, I pretty much always bring a farro salad. This version is my favorite thanks to its bright Mediterranean-inspired flavors and super easy steps. Everyone always asks for the recipe! My farro salad uses easy-to-find ingredients (because who wants to scour the grocery store for a tricky ingredient?). I also love this recipe because it does not require a ton of prep like other recipes that use cooked ingredients – the only cooking in this recipe is the farro! It’s bright & refreshing thanks to the use a two kinds of fresh herbs and fresh lemon juice. This recipe is also perfect for a light, healthy lunch and can be paired with lots of other tasty sides (see my suggestions below!)
Farro Salad Recipe Ingredients
*See below for more information.
See recipe card for full ingredient list and quantities.
What is farro & where do I find it?
Farro is an ancient whole grain that’s chewy, nutty, and slightly earthy in flavor. You can find farro at most grocery stores often in the rice and grains section or health food/natural foods aisle.
What is in the lemony dressing ?
This lemon dressing is SO easy to make! All you need is an extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, and salt & pepper.
How to Make The Best Ever Farro Salad
1. Combine Cooked Farro with Veggies/Cheese
I like to use a large serving bowl.
2. Gently toss until combined.
3. Pour over dressing, toss again
Then taste and add more salt and pepper, if desired. Let the salad sit for 30 minutes (ideally in the fridge but this can also be enjoyed at room temp). Serve & enjoy!
Farro Salad Variations
- Veggies – Consider adding cucumber, bell peppers, snap peas, baby spinach, artichoke hearts, and more!
- Nuts/Seeds – Add a crunch with some pepitas, sunflower seeds, toasted almonds, and more
- Protein – I love the addition of chickpeas in this farro salad!
Farro Salad Recipe Tips
What to Serve With Farro Salad
Our Favorite
Summer Salad Recipes
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Salad With Farro
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Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked farro (1 cup uncooked)
- 1/2 medium red onion, diced
- 3/4-1 cup halved cherry tomatoes use 1 cup if you love cherry tomatoes!
- 1-2 cups fresh arugula optional
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/3-1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (I used Follow Your Heart df version)
- 1/3 cup sliced kalamata olives
Lemon Dressing
- 1/4 cup high quality extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- If you haven't yet, cook your farro. Rinse the farro under cold water. In a pot, combine farro and water or vegetable broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer (covered) for 15-20 minutes or until tender. (check package, cook time can vary). Drain any excess liquid and let it cool.Tip: You can cook your farro in low-sodium vegetable broth for more flavor.3 cups cooked farro
- While the farro cooks, chop you veggies and and herbs.
- Whisk your salad dressing and set aside.1/4 cup high quality extra virgin olive oil, 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 tsp dijon mustard, 1 tsp maple syrup, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, fresh herbs, and feta cheese. Toss gently to combine.1/2 medium red onion, diced, 3/4-1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1-2 cups fresh arugula, 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint, 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, 1/3-1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/3 cup sliced kalamata olives
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.Tip: Taste and add salt and pepper as desired.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs you have leftover, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- The addition of arugula is optional – I found the salad also tastes incredible without it! You could also try baby spinach instead.
- This farro salad tastes even better if it sits for at least 30 minutes. You can enjoy either room temperature or chilled.
- Feel free to switch up the herbs – this would also be great with fresh parsley!
- Chickpeas are a great addition for more protein.
- If you like a touch of sweetness, add in some chopped apple or dried cranberries.
- extra virgin
- in a dark bottle
- a reputable brand (Lucini, California Olive Branch, and Brightland are great, amongst others)
