Looking to switch up your side dishes with something nutritious and flavorful? Farro is an ancient grain that is becoming increasingly popular due to its chewy texture and nutty taste.
You’ll discover how versatile farro can be and learn new ways to incorporate this hearty grain into your meals. Whether you’re serving fish, chicken, or a vegetarian dish, these farro side dishes are sure to impress and satisfy.
1) Farro and Roasted Vegetable Salad
Farro and roasted vegetable salad is a delicious and wholesome side dish. Start by cooking the farro in lightly salted boiling water until it’s tender but still a bit chewy. This usually takes around 25 minutes. Once cooked, drain and place in a large bowl.
To prepare the vegetables, cut eggplant, zucchini, peppers, and onion into 1-inch dice. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast in an oven preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The vegetables should be done in about 20 minutes.
Once the farro and vegetables are ready, combine them in a large bowl. Add a handful of cherry tomatoes and nuts like walnuts for extra texture and flavor. For added richness, you can include a bit of cheese such as fontina or feta.
Finally, dress the salad with a mixture of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Toss everything together to coat the farro and vegetables evenly. This farro salad pairs well with grilled dishes and makes for a vibrant, nutrient-packed side that will impress any guest.
2) Mushroom and Farro Risotto
Mushroom and Farro Risotto is a flavorful twist on the classic risotto. Farro, an ancient grain, adds a nutty taste and chewy texture. It’s also packed with fiber and protein.
Start by sautéing garlic, onions, and thyme in butter until softened. This creates a fragrant base. Add the farro next, toasting it until it’s dry and aromatic.
In a separate pot, boil vegetable broth. Gradually add the hot broth to the farro mixture, stirring regularly. This method helps the farro absorb the liquid evenly, creating a creamy texture.
Add mushrooms and cook until they are tender. The mushrooms bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with the nutty farro. For extra richness, you can stir in some grated Parmesan cheese.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve this hearty dish as a main course or as a side dish to complement any meal.
Enjoy the unique combination of flavors and the satisfying texture of Mushroom and Farro Risotto. It’s a simple yet impressive dish guaranteed to please your taste buds.
3) Greek Farro Salad with Feta
Greek Farro Salad with Feta is a delicious and healthy option for any meal. It combines hearty farro with fresh vegetables and tangy feta cheese.
Start by cooking the farro. Boil it in water with a pinch of salt until it’s tender yet chewy.
In a large bowl, mix cooked farro with arugula, chickpeas, cucumber, bell peppers, and olives. These ingredients add a burst of color and flavor.
Make the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well.
Lastly, add crumbled feta cheese on top. The salty, creamy feta balances the flavors perfectly.
Your Greek Farro Salad with Feta is ready to serve. Enjoy it fresh and chilled or at room temperature.
4) Farro and Butternut Squash Pilaf
Farro and Butternut Squash Pilaf makes a perfect side dish for any meal. The nutty flavor of farro pairs wonderfully with the sweet and earthy taste of butternut squash.
Start by roasting cubed butternut squash in the oven until it is soft and slightly browned. This adds a caramelized flavor that enhances the dish.
While the squash is roasting, cook the farro in chicken or vegetable broth. This adds extra flavor to the grains. Make sure the farro is tender but still chewy.
In a large skillet, sauté diced onions and garlic in a little olive oil until they’re soft. Add the cooked farro and roasted butternut squash to the skillet. Stir everything together gently.
For extra flavor, season the pilaf with salt, pepper, and a touch of thyme or sage. You can also add dried cranberries or toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a bit of crunch and sweetness.
Serve the Farro and Butternut Squash Pilaf warm. It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled fish, or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty vegetarian option. This dish is nutritious, delicious, and sure to be a hit at your table.
5) Farro Tabouli with Mint and Parsley
Farro Tabouli with Mint and Parsley is a tasty twist on the classic tabbouleh salad. You’ll love how the nutty farro combines with fresh herbs for a refreshing side dish.
First, cook the farro until tender. This usually takes about 30 minutes. Drain and let it cool.
Chop fresh parsley and mint finely. You can use a food processor if you like. Mix these herbs with the cooled farro in a large bowl.
Add diced onion, tomato, and cucumber. These vegetables add a delightful crunch and bright flavor.
Drizzle with good olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle toss to blend the flavors.
For the best taste, refrigerate the salad for a few hours before serving. This lets the flavors meld nicely.
Farro Tabouli with Mint and Parsley can be a delicious side dish or even a light lunch. It’s healthy, flavorful, and easy to make.
6) Herbed Farro and Chickpea Stew
Herbed Farro and Chickpea Stew is a hearty dish filled with nutritious ingredients. It’s a perfect blend of farro, chickpeas, and fresh herbs.
Start by heating oil in a medium soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Stir them occasionally until softened, around 6-8 minutes.
Next, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Combine chickpeas, broth, and chopped tomatoes into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Add rosemary, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to mix and develop.
Meanwhile, you can prepare the farro by following package instructions. Typically, you’ll boil it until tender. Once cooked, drain any excess water.
After the stew has simmered, add the cooked farro. Stir well and let the mixture sit for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley or other herbs of your choice.
This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside a main course. It’s a wonderful addition to any meal, providing both flavor and nutrition.
7) Farro and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds. Slice a small bit off the bottom of each half so they sit flat. Place them on a baking sheet lined with foil.
Brush the cut sides with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle a bit of honey on each half. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until the squash is fork-tender.
While the squash is roasting, cook the farro. Combine it with apple cider and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until the liquid is absorbed, about 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, around 3-4 minutes. Add chopped onions, apples, celery, and garlic. Saute until the vegetables soften, about 5-6 minutes.
Once the farro is cooked, mix it with the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture. Stuff each acorn squash half with the farro mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to blend the flavors. This dish combines savory and sweet flavors for a hearty side.
8) Spinach and Farro Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This Spinach and Farro Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a fresh and healthy option.
Start by cooking the farro. Use a large pot of salted water, bring it to a boil, and then reduce the heat. Let it simmer until the farro is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the farro and let it cool.
For the vinaigrette, combine lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a small jar. Shake well until the mixture is fully combined.
In a large bowl, place a bed of fresh spinach. Add the cooled farro on top. Mix in thinly sliced apples, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries for added flavor.
Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently. This ensures that every ingredient is coated with the zesty dressing.
This salad is versatile. You can serve it as a side dish or a light meal. The combination of farro and spinach provides a satisfying texture and taste, making it a delightful addition to your table.
9) Farro and Black Bean Burrito Bowl
Farro and black bean burrito bowls are a great option for a healthy and filling side dish. You start by cooking farro according to package directions.
While the farro is cooking, sauté sliced onions in olive oil until they get a bit of char and start to soften. This adds a nice flavor and texture.
Next, prepare your black beans. You can use canned beans for convenience. Don’t rinse them, as the liquid adds richness when you heat them with cumin and chili powder.
Combine the cooked farro, sautéed onions, and black beans in a bowl. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of acidity.
To make it more colorful and nutritious, consider adding vegetables. Grilled or sautéed bell peppers, corn, and tomatoes work well.
For additional flavor, garnish with fresh cilantro and diced avocado. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese if you like.
This dish is versatile. You can adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste. Farro and black bean burrito bowls provide a balanced mix of grains, protein, and vegetables. Enjoy exploring different variations to find your favorite combination!
10) Farro and Roasted Beet Salad
Farro and roasted beets make a great side dish that’s both tasty and healthy. Start by peeling and chopping beets into small chunks. Toss the beets with avocado oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Cook the farro according to package instructions. Once the farro is ready, mix it with the roasted beets in a large bowl. Add a handful of crumbled feta cheese and some chopped fresh mint for extra flavor.
You can also toss in some nuts like pistachios or pumpkin seeds for added crunch. This salad pairs well with a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing. Serve it warm or chill it before serving.
This dish is colorful and full of texture, making it a hit at any meal.
What Is Farro?
Farro is an ancient grain that has gained popularity for its nutty flavor and rich texture. It offers several nutritional benefits and has a long history in human diets. There are different types of farro, each with unique characteristics.
Nutritional Benefits
Farro is a nutrient-dense grain. It is high in fiber, which supports digestion, and protein, making it a good option for vegetarians looking to boost their protein intake. Farro is also rich in iron and magnesium, which are essential for energy production and muscle function.
Farro contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation and improve overall health. It is also a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing a steady release of energy.
History of Farro
Farro has been cultivated for thousands of years. It was a staple food in the diets of ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Romans. The grain’s name comes from the Latin word “far”, which was used to describe the wheat species Triticum dicoccon.
Farro fell out of favor with the rise of more modern grains like wheat but has recently made a comeback due to its health benefits and versatility. Many cultures have traditional dishes that feature farro as a key ingredient.
Types of Farro
There are three main types of farro: einkorn, emmer, and spelt. Einkorn is the oldest variety, known for its tiny grains and chewy texture. Emmer is the most common type found in stores and has a robust, nutty flavor. Spelt is larger and softer, often used in baking.
Each type varies in cooking time and texture, so it’s important to choose the right one based on your recipe. For instance, emmer is excellent for salads and grain bowls, while spelt can be used in soups and stews.
Cooking Tips for Farro Side Dishes
Knowing how to cook farro properly and which flavors pair well with it can make your side dishes much more delicious and enjoyable. Use these tips to ensure your farro side dishes come out perfectly every time.
Preparation and Cooking Methods
Farro needs to be rinsed well in cold water to remove any debris before cooking. Use about 1 cup of farro to 2.5 cups of water or broth. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the farro is tender, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
There are two common types of farro: pearled and semi-pearled. Pearled farro cooks faster because it has less bran. If you’re in a hurry, choose pearled farro for quicker meals. For a richer taste, opt for semi-pearled farro.
For added flavor, cook farro in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. Farro can also be toasted lightly in a pan before boiling to add a nutty flavor to your dish.
Flavor Pairings
Farro has a nutty taste and chewy texture, making it versatile for many flavor combinations. It pairs well with roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and dill can brighten the dish.
For added richness, consider stirring in some crumbled feta or goat cheese. A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the taste of farro even more.
Spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper can give your farro a kick. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, dried fruits like cranberries or apricots work well.
Mix in protein sources like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make your farro side dish more filling. Experiment with different combinations to find what you love most.
Health Benefits of Farro Side Dishes
Farro is packed with nutrients that help your body in many ways. It is rich in fiber and protein, making it a smart addition to your diet.
High Fiber Content
Fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system. Farro is a great source of dietary fiber, which helps keep your digestive tract running smoothly. A diet rich in fiber can prevent constipation and other digestive problems.
Eating fiber also helps control blood sugar levels. This is particularly important for people with diabetes. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugar, preventing big spikes in blood sugar levels. Including farro side dishes in your meals can help manage your blood sugar.
High-fiber foods like farro can also make you feel full, which helps with weight management. When you feel full for longer, you are less likely to overeat. Adding farro to your meals can help you stay on track with your health goals.
Rich in Protein
Protein is vital for building and repairing tissues in your body. Farro is high in protein, making it a good choice for vegetarians and vegans. It provides an alternative source of protein when you don’t eat meat.
Protein also helps boost your energy levels. It keeps you feeling full and satisfied, which can reduce the temptation to snack on less healthy foods. Adding farro to your diet can help you maintain stable energy throughout the day.
Including farro in your meals can support muscle growth and maintenance. This is especially helpful for people who are physically active. The protein in farro gives your muscles the nutrients they need to recover after exercise.
Incorporating farro side dishes into your diet is a step toward a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
