Description
1 cup farro, cooked according to package instructions
1 cup arugula
½ cup ricotta cheese
1 orange, juiced and zested
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, arugula, and ricotta cheese.
Drizzle the citrus balsamic glaze over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes for extra flavor. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 280 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Cook the Farro: Rinse 1 cup of farro under cold water. Cook according to package instructions, typically simmering in salted water or broth for 15-20 minutes until tender but chewy. Drain any excess liquid and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the farro cooks, zest and juice the orange into a small bowl. Add the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a crack of black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is emulsified.
- Combine the Salad: In your large serving bowl, add the warm, cooked farro. The slight warmth will help the flavors meld. Immediately add the arugula and dollops of ricotta cheese.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle the prepared citrus balsamic glaze over the salad ingredients. Using salad servers or two large spoons, gently toss everything together until the farro and arugula are evenly coated and the ricotta creates creamy pockets.
- Rest and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the farro to absorb the dressing and the arugula to wilt slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad can be adapted to suit any meal.
- As a Main: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or flaked salmon for a complete, protein-packed lunch or light dinner.
- As a Side: Pairs beautifully with roasted pork tenderloin, herb-crusted fish, or a simple frittata.
- For a Crowd: Double the recipe for a potluck. Transport the dressing separately and toss just before serving to keep the arugula fresh.
- Texture Boost: Add crunch with toasted walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds just before serving.
How-to Summary
Whisk orange juice, zest, balsamic, honey, and oil for the glaze. Combine cooked farro, arugula, and ricotta in a bowl. Drizzle with glaze, toss gently, and let rest briefly before serving for optimal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but with prep. Cook the farro and make the dressing up to 2 days ahead. Store separately. Combine all components just before serving to prevent a soggy salad.
What can I use instead of farro? Freekeh, wheat berries, or pearl barley offer a similar chewy texture. For a gluten-free option, use cooked quinoa or brown rice.
Is there a substitute for ricotta? Fresh goat cheese (chèvre) or crumbled feta cheese would provide a similar creamy, tangy element.
My dressing is too tart. How can I fix it? Balance the acidity by whisking in an extra 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of honey or a pinch of sugar until the flavor mellows to your liking.
Can I use bottled orange juice? Freshly squeezed juice is highly recommended for the best bright, vibrant flavor. Bottled juice often lacks freshness and can add unwanted sweetness or preservative flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Farro: Aim for al dente, with a pleasant chew. Mushy farro will ruin the salad’s texture.
- Not Tossing Gently: Aggressive mixing will break down the ricotta completely instead of leaving delightful creamy bits.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Serving immediately is fine, but the short 10-15 minute rest allows the farro to soak up the dressing, significantly deepening the overall flavor.
- Using Stale Arugula: Wilted, bitter arugula will dominate the salad. Ensure your greens are fresh and crisp.
Conclusion
This Farro Salad with Citrus Balsamic Glaze is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. The combination of nutty farro, peppery arugula, creamy ricotta, and a bright, sweet-tart dressing is both satisfying and refreshing. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this elegant yet easy dish. It’s a perfect, wholesome recipe that is sure to become a regular in your culinary rotation.
