Winter Farro Salad

Introduction

Winter Farro Salad is the kind of dish that makes you embrace the season. It’s the perfect marriage of hearty, nutty farro and vibrant, roasted winter vegetables, all brought together with a tangy, zesty vinaigrette. This salad feels like a warm, comforting hug on a cold day, with the farro providing a satisfying base and the roasted vegetables adding depth and sweetness. The fresh herbs bring a burst of brightness, making every bite a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and freshness, ideal for those winter months when you want something hearty yet light.

The first time I made Winter Farro Salad, I was struck by how easy it was to throw together while still feeling so wholesome and nourishing. Roasting the vegetables in the oven filled my kitchen with the mouthwatering scent of winter spices and caramelized sweetness, and tossing everything together with that tangy vinaigrette made it all come to life. The result was a bowl full of vibrant, satisfying flavors that left me feeling full yet refreshed—exactly what I needed to balance out those cold, gray days.

What I love most about Winter Farro Salad is how versatile it is. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish to accompany roasted meats, or even as a main course when you add a protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken. You can also swap out the veggies depending on what you have in season. No matter how you serve it, this salad will quickly become a go-to during the colder months, offering a satisfying and healthy way to enjoy the winter season.

Perfect for:

• Winter gatherings
• Holiday meals
• Meal prepping
• A satisfying lunch or dinner
• Healthy, hearty side dishes

Why You’ll Love This Winter Farro Salad Recipe

Here’s why Winter Farro Salad will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Nutrient-Packed: Farro is a whole grain that’s high in fiber and protein, making this salad a nourishing, filling dish that will keep you energized throughout the day.
• Comforting Yet Light: Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash add warmth and depth to the dish, while the fresh greens keep it light and vibrant.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add other ingredients like nuts, seeds, or cheese to make the salad your own.
• Versatile: It works well as a side dish with roasted meats or as a satisfying vegetarian main, and it’s just as delicious served warm or cold.
• Make-Ahead: This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it a great choice for meal prepping or serving at gatherings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Winter Farro Salad:

• 1 ½ cups farro, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, kale)
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Farro: This ancient whole grain is not only delicious but also packed with fiber and protein, making it a perfect base for the salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: The sweet and earthy flavor of roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and carrots create the perfect winter vegetable medley.
• Mixed Greens: A handful of fresh greens like spinach or arugula brings a burst of freshness to balance the roasted vegetables.
• Feta Cheese: This optional addition adds a tangy, creamy element that complements the earthy flavors of the farro and vegetables.
• Walnuts and Cranberries: These optional toppings add crunch and a touch of sweetness, making the salad even more dynamic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your Winter Farro Salad:

Cook the Farro:

1. Rinse the Farro: Place the farro in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water to remove any excess starch.
2. Cook the Farro: In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed farro and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the farro is tender but still chewy. Drain any excess water and set aside to cool.

Roast the Vegetables:

3. Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed butternut squash, halved Brussels sprouts, and sliced carrots on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast the Vegetables: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the vegetables are golden brown and tender.

Assemble the Salad:

5. Combine Farro and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked farro with the roasted vegetables. Toss to combine.
6. Add the Greens and Toppings: Add the fresh mixed greens to the bowl and gently toss again. If desired, sprinkle with feta cheese, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries.

Prepare the Dressing:

7. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the dressing is well combined.
8. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the farro and vegetable mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Serve:

9. Serve Immediately or Chill: The salad can be served warm or chilled. If you prefer a colder salad, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Winter Farro Salad

Winter Farro Salad can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or lamb for a complete winter meal.
• For Meal Prep: Make a large batch and portion it into containers for a quick, nutritious lunch throughout the week.
• Topped with Protein: Add grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a fried egg on top to make it a full meal.
• For Holiday Meals: This salad makes a wonderful side for your holiday spreads, offering a lighter, healthier alternative to heavier sides.
• Chilled or Room Temperature: This salad tastes great at room temperature or chilled, making it ideal for picnics or potlucks.

Additional Tips for Winter Farro Salad

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Winter Farro Salad turns out perfectly every time:

• Customize the Vegetables: If you prefer different vegetables, feel free to swap in parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even beets for a different flavor profile.
• Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor, making them even more delicious in the salad.
• Make the Salad Ahead of Time: The flavors in the salad improve after sitting for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
• Use a Grain Cooker: If you have a grain cooker, it can make cooking farro even easier by automatically cooking it to the perfect texture.
• Add Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh parsley or basil, they can make a wonderful addition for an extra burst of flavor.

Recipe Variations for Winter Farro Salad

Here are 10 ways to make your Winter Farro Salad unique:

• Add Roasted Beets: Roasted beets add a pop of color and an earthy sweetness to the salad.
• Add Roasted Pumpkin: Swap out the butternut squash for roasted pumpkin for a slightly different flavor.
• Make It Vegan: Omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based dressing for a vegan-friendly version.
• Add Goat Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier, tangier flavor.
• Add Grilled Chicken: Top with grilled chicken for a protein-packed salad that works as a full meal.
• Add Apple Slices: Crisp apple slices provide a fresh, sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with the earthy grains and vegetables.
• Use Quinoa Instead of Farro: If you prefer a gluten-free option, quinoa makes a great substitute for farro.
• Add Pomegranate Seeds: For a burst of color and sweetness, add fresh pomegranate seeds to the salad.
• Add Roasted Garlic: Roasted garlic adds depth and richness to the flavor of the salad.
• Use Kale: Swap the mixed greens for kale for a heartier, more robust green.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Farro salad can be frozen, though the vegetables might lose some texture. If freezing, store the salad without the dressing, and freeze the vegetables and farro separately.
• Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Dress the salad right before serving to keep the greens fresh.

Special Equipment for Winter Farro Salad

These items will help you prepare Winter Farro Salad:

• Large Mixing Bowl: A big bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet is needed for roasting the vegetables evenly.
• Fine Mesh Sieve: Use a fine mesh sieve to rinse the farro before cooking it.
• Small Whisk: A small whisk is perfect for making the vinaigrette and ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Toaster or Oven for Walnuts: Toasting walnuts can be done in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.

FAQ Section for Winter Farro Salad

1. Can I use pre-cooked farro for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use pre-cooked farro for a quicker preparation. Just follow the instructions on the package for heating it through.
2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
   You can substitute dried herbs in place of fresh herbs, but reduce the quantity by about half since dried herbs are more concentrated.
3. Can I make this salad without roasting the vegetables?
   While roasting the vegetables adds depth of flavor, you can skip that step and use raw or steamed vegetables for a quicker version of the salad.
4. Can I make this salad gluten-free?
   Yes, simply swap the farro with quinoa, rice, or another gluten-free grain for a gluten-free version of the salad.
5. Can I add a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can use goat cheese, blue cheese, or even Parmesan instead of feta for a different flavor.

Print

Conclusion

Winter Farro Salad is a perfect dish for the colder months, offering a combination of hearty farro, roasted vegetables, and fresh greens. It’s not only a great side dish but also a filling main meal that’s easy to customize based on your preferences. With its balance of flavors and textures, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing, making it a wonderful addition to your winter meal rotation. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this salad will surely impress and delight your guests.

I’d love to see how you make this salad your own! Be sure to tag me on Instagram when you make it—I can’t wait to see your version. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts. Happy cooking!