Best Easy Insalata di Farro Recipe

Chilled farro salad with fresh vegetables, herbs, and olive oil from Tuscany. This vegetarian mediterranean salad is high in protein and fiber, ideal for a healthy, fresh family lunch or weight loss plan.

Cook 45 min Difficulty EASY 280 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #high protein #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • farro (pearled) 1 cup
  • cherry tomatoes 1 cup
  • English cucumber 0.5 cup
  • red onion 0.25 cup
  • fresh parsley 0.25 cup
  • fresh basil 0.25 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • extra-virgin olive oil 3 tbsp
  • lemon juice 2 tbsp
  • sea salt 0.5 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 40 g 57%
Protein 10 g 14%
Fat 8 g 29%
Serving size 230g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the farro thoroughly under cold running water, then bring a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

  2. 2

    Add the farro, lower the heat to medium, and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes until just tender but still chewy. Drain well and spread on a tray to cool quickly.

  3. 3

    While the farro cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely slice the red onion, and roughly chop the parsley and basil for even texture in every bite.

  4. 4

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled farro, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and basil.

  5. 5

    In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly; chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing flavors to meld.

  6. 6

    Toss again and adjust salt or lemon juice if needed just before serving to balance the seasoning.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
Pearled farro is the foundation of Insalata di Farro, giving the salad its hearty texture, slightly nutty flavor, and high protein and fiber content, making it the star ingredient that defines the dish.
Q. Which seasoning makes the biggest difference in flavor?
Extra-virgin olive oil contributes a signature Tuscan richness, while lemon juice adds brightness and balance, together elevating the freshness and Mediterranean flavor profile of this salad.
Q. What’s important about cooking the farro for this salad?
Simmering the farro over medium heat and draining it as soon as it’s just tender will deliver the signature chewy texture without making it mushy. Cooling it rapidly prevents overcooking and sogginess.
Q. How many calories and protein does each serving have?
Each 230g serving provides approximately 280 kcal, with 10g protein per serving. This makes the salad suitable for those seeking a high-protein, balanced vegetarian meal.
Q. How do the vegetables stay crisp and fresh in this salad?
Adding the vegetables after the farro has cooled and chilling the salad before serving lock in crunch and freshness, preserving texture and preventing wilting.
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