Name: Greek Farro Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Quick Cooking Farro; 3 cups Chopped Baby Kale; 2 cups Diced Heirloom Tomatoes; 2 cups Diced English Cucumber; 1 cup Diced Red Onion; 1/2 cup Chopped Kalamata Olives; 1/2 cup Chopped Parsley; 6 oz Fat-Free Crumbled Feta Cheese; 1 1/2 teaspoons Dried Oregano; Salt & Pepper to taste; 1 clove Garlic, grated; 4 teaspoons Dijon Mustard; 4 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar; 7 tablespoons Olive Oil

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Are you ready to elevate your salad game? This Greek Farro Salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful dance of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. Bursting with fresh ingredients, hearty farro, and a tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a potluck showstopper. Let’s dive into the world of this nutritious and vibrant dish that’s sure to become a favorite among your meals.

The Upside of Greek Farro Salad

Greek Farro Salad is a wholesome and nutritious option packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. Farro, an ancient grain, serves as a fantastic base that is not only filling but also adds a nutty flavor to the mix. Each bite of this salad is a celebration of Mediterranean ingredients that are known for their health benefits. The combination of fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese brings a delightful crunch and richness that makes every forkful a joy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the flavors to suit your palate!

What’s in the Bowl

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this Greek Farro Salad truly special:

8 oz Quick Cooking Farro: The hearty grain that serves as the base of the salad, providing a chewy texture and nutty flavor.
3 cups Chopped Baby Kale: A nutrient-dense leafy green that adds color, crunch, and a wealth of vitamins.
2 cups Diced Heirloom Tomatoes: Juicy and flavorful tomatoes that bring freshness and a hint of sweetness.
2 cups Diced English Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers add a nice crunch to the salad.
1 cup Diced Red Onion: Sharp and slightly sweet, red onions offer a burst of flavor and color.
1/2 cup Chopped Kalamata Olives: These briny olives add a rich, savory depth to the salad.
1/2 cup Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
6 oz Fat-Free Crumbled Feta Cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta brings a delicious contrast to the crunchiness of the veggies.
1 1/2 teaspoons Dried Oregano: This herb adds a classic Mediterranean flavor that ties everything together.
Salt & Pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the salad.
1 clove Garlic, grated: A hint of garlic adds depth and aroma to the dressing.
4 teaspoons Dijon Mustard: For a tangy kick in the dressing.
4 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar: The acidity balances the richness of the feta and olives.
7 tablespoons Olive Oil: A staple in Mediterranean cuisine that adds richness and healthy fats.

Must-Have Equipment

To whip up this delicious Greek Farro Salad, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

Large Pot: For cooking the farro to perfection.
Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for chopping your vegetables.
Sharp Knife: Essential for dicing and slicing with ease.
Mixing Bowl: To combine all the ingredients together.
Whisk: For blending the dressing smoothly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure precision in your ingredients.

Make Greek Farro Salad: A Simple Method

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your own Greek Farro Salad:

Step 1: Cook the Farro

Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add 8 oz of quick cooking farro and a pinch of salt. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 10-15 minutes until tender. Drain and let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the farro is cooking, chop your vegetables. Dice the heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, and chop the baby kale, parsley, and kalamata olives.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the grated garlic, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing will add a zingy flavor that ties the salad together.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked farro, chopped kale, diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Add the Feta

Finally, sprinkle the fat-free crumbled feta cheese on top and give it one last gentle mix. The feta will melt slightly into the warm farro, adding creamy goodness.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

If You’re Out Of…

Don’t worry if you find yourself missing an ingredient! Here are some great substitutes:

Farro: Quinoa or barley can be excellent alternatives if you’re out of farro.
Kale: Spinach or arugula can provide a similar freshness if kale is unavailable.
Feta Cheese: Goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative can work well.
Balsamic Vinegar: Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can add a different, yet delicious, tang.

What Could Go Wrong

Even the best cooks can face challenges. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooking the Farro: Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it remains chewy and not mushy.
Too Much Dressing: Start with a little dressing and add more as needed; it’s easier to add than to take away!
Skimping on Seasoning: Don’t forget to season the salad properly; flavors can become dull without the right amount of salt and pepper.
Not Letting It Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes after mixing lets the flavors develop beautifully.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Greek Farro Salad is great for meal prep! Here are some storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the vegetables may suffer after thawing.
Separation: If storing for later, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste.

Final Thoughts

Greek Farro Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious lunch or a colorful addition to your dinner table, this salad fits the bill. With its simple preparation and fantastic taste, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!

This Greek Farro Salad is not only delicious but also a fulfilling way to nourish your body and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy every bite of this beautiful, wholesome salad!