Description
1 cup farro, cooked according to package instructions
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
For the Citrus Dressing:
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
½ tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, dried cranberries, feta cheese, walnuts (or pecans), spinach, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve immediately or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 280 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Farro: Rinse 1 cup of farro under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the farro with 3 cups of water or broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until tender but still chewy. Drain any excess liquid and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Components: While the farro cooks, finely dice ¼ cup of red onion. Roughly chop ½ cup of walnuts or pecans. Crumble ½ cup of feta cheese. Chop 2 cups of baby spinach.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine ¼ cup fresh orange juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp honey, ½ tsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm (not hot) cooked farro, dried cranberries, feta, nuts, spinach, and red onion.
5. Dress and Rest: Pour the citrus dressing over the salad. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. For best flavor, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the farro to absorb the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines as a standalone vegetarian lunch but also pairs beautifully as a side. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or sweet potatoes. For a heartier meal, add a can of rinsed chickpeas or white beans. Pack it for a picnic or potluck, as it holds up well without getting soggy.
How-to Summary
Cook farro until tender. Chop spinach, onion, and nuts. Whisk orange juice, oil, vinegar, honey, and mustard for the dressing. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, toss with dressing, and let rest briefly before serving for optimal flavor melding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it undressed in the refrigerator and add the dressing 10-15 minutes before serving.
What can I use instead of farro? Quinoa, barley, or brown rice make excellent gluten-free substitutes. Adjust cooking times according to the grain you choose.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese? For a dairy-free version, use vegan feta or creamy avocado. Goat cheese or shaved Parmesan also work well.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve the next day.
Can I use a different nut? Absolutely. Toasted almonds, pistachios, or pumpkin seeds would be delicious alternatives to walnuts or pecans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the farro, which turns it mushy; it should be tender yet retain a pleasant chew. Do not add the dressing while the farro is piping hot, as it can wilt the spinach and melt the feta. Ensure your orange juice is freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor, as bottled juice can taste flat. Finally, don’t skip the resting time after tossing—this crucial step allows the grains to soak up the dressing.
Conclusion
This Farro Salad with Citrus Dressing is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—chewy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy. It’s a nutritious, make-ahead recipe that is as satisfying as it is simple. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily master this dish and adapt it to your preferences. It’s sure to become a reliable favorite for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike.
