Ingredients
1 cup pearled or semi-pearled farro
2 cups water
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 bay leaf
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh arugula
1/3 cup chopped pistachios or almonds
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
. Cook the Farro to Perfection
Rinse the farro under cold water to remove excess starch.
In a saucepan, combine farro, water, white wine, and bay leaf.
Bring to a simmer and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Drain any excess liquid, remove the bay leaf, and spread the farro out to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, toss the cooked farro with the dressing and let it sit for a few minutes.
Add cherry tomatoes, arugula, and nuts, tossing gently to combine.
Sprinkle in grated Parmesan and mix lightly.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Final Touches & Serving
Garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and chopped nuts.
Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added richness.
Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tip: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Add extra lemon juice and olive oil before serving to refresh the flavors.
Vegan Variation: Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast and add roasted chickpeas for extra protein.
Protein Additions: Pair with grilled chicken, seared salmon, or crispy tofu for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad, Main Dish
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Serves 4
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Charlie Bird Farro Salad