Farro is a versatile ancient grain that deserves a spot in your kitchen. With its nutty flavor and chewy texture, farro adds both nutritional value and delicious taste to your meals.
This hearty grain works wonderfully as a side dish that can complement almost any main course. You can serve it with anything from simple weeknight dinners to special occasions.
Looking for ways to incorporate more whole grains into your diet without sacrificing flavor? Farro might be the perfect answer. Whether served warm with vegetables and herbs or cold in refreshing salads, farro side dishes offer endless possibilities.
You can prepare it simply with just a few ingredients or dress it up with complex flavors depending on your mood and meal needs.
1. Farro with Vegetables and Thyme
Farro with vegetables and thyme makes a versatile and nutritious side dish for your meals. This hearty grain pairs perfectly with carrots, celery, and onions, creating a flavorful combination.
The earthy nuttiness of farro complements the aromatic thyme, giving this dish a rustic charm. You can serve it warm as a side dish alongside your main course.
For added flexibility, you can chill it and serve it as a refreshing salad. It even works well as a base for soups when you want something more substantial.
The simple preparation allows the natural flavors to shine through, making this an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
2. Easy, Creamy Parmesan Farro
This one-pot farro dish combines simplicity with rich flavor. You’ll need farro, broth, Italian cheeses, onions, garlic, butter, and fresh parsley.
Start by sautéing finely minced onions in olive oil until soft. Add the dry farro and toast it slightly before deglazing with white wine or vermouth.
Pour in broth and simmer until the farro is tender but still has a pleasant chew. The cooking process creates a naturally creamy texture.
Finish by stirring in Parmesan cheese and a touch of butter. This creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect alongside roasted meats or as a standalone meal.
3. Healthy Warm Farro Salad
Healthy Warm Farro Salad combines nutty farro with fresh vegetables for a nutritious side dish. Cook the farro in broth instead of water to add more flavor.
Try mixing in crumbled feta cheese and kale with a lemon-garlic dressing for a simple meal. You can customize it with different seasonal vegetables.
Roasted vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, mushrooms, and onions make a hearty addition. Just toss them with olive oil and roast at 400°F before mixing with the cooked farro.
For a fall version, combine warm farro with radicchio, goat cheese, and pistachios. A fig vinaigrette adds sweetness to balance the flavors.
4. Simple, Savory Mushroom Farro
Mushroom farro combines earthy flavors and hearty textures in one satisfying dish. You’ll love how the nutty farro grains complement the rich umami taste of mushrooms.
To make this dish, sauté fresh mushrooms with garlic and herbs until they’re golden brown. Then add the cooked farro and toss everything together with a splash of olive oil.
For extra protein, you can mix in some chickpeas or white beans. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds a delicious savory finish that brings all the flavors together.
This versatile side dish works well in winter but can be enjoyed year-round. It pairs perfectly with roasted meats or stands alone as a light meal.
5. Savory Garlic Farro
Savory garlic farro makes a delicious alternative to rice or potatoes with its nutty flavor and hearty texture. This side dish is both simple to prepare and packed with nutrition.
To make it, cook farro according to package directions, then sauté with minced garlic, olive oil, and your choice of herbs. The garlic infuses the farro with rich flavor while keeping the recipe straightforward.
You can enhance this dish by adding sautéed onions or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for a grain bowl.
For a complete meal, try adding some roasted cherry tomatoes and a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
6. Farro with Mushrooms and Chorizo
This flavorful dish combines nutty farro with earthy mushrooms and spicy chorizo for a perfect side that could easily become a main meal. The combination creates a rich flavor profile that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Start by sautéing mixed mushrooms until golden brown, then add diced chorizo to release its smoky oils. The fat from the chorizo adds incredible depth to the dish.
Cook your farro separately until tender but still chewy. Then combine everything together, allowing the farro to absorb all the wonderful flavors.
You can customize this dish by adding garlic, herbs, or a splash of cream for extra richness. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or can stand alone as a hearty vegetable-forward meal.
7. Sweet Potato and Goat Cheese Farro
This warm farro dish combines nutty grains with caramelized sweet potatoes and creamy goat cheese for a perfect balance of flavors. The sweet potatoes roast until tender, developing rich caramelized edges that contrast beautifully with the tangy cheese.
Red onions add a savory element and pretty color to the dish. For extra texture, consider adding crunchy pumpkin seeds or pecans on top.
The combination is both nutritious and satisfying, with the hearty farro providing fiber while the sweet potatoes offer vitamins. A simple balsamic vinaigrette or lemon dressing ties everything together nicely.
This dish works equally well as a side or light main course.
8. Cucumber, Melon and Farro Salad
This refreshing salad combines hearty farro with cool cucumber and sweet melon for a perfect summer dish. The contrasting textures and flavors make it a standout at any cookout or gathering.
To prepare, simply toss cooked farro with diced cucumber, cantaloupe or honeydew melon, and cherry tomatoes. The recipe typically includes a light dressing made from olive oil, vinegar, and shallots.
Adding fresh herbs like chives or basil brightens the flavor profile. Finish with crumbled feta cheese for a salty, creamy element that balances the sweetness of the melon.
You can serve this versatile salad as a side dish or light lunch. It’s especially perfect for hot summer days when you want something light yet satisfying.
9. Cheesy Farro with Spinach
Cheesy farro with spinach combines hearty grain with leafy greens for a delicious side dish. The nutty flavor of farro works perfectly with the creamy cheese and fresh spinach.
You can make this dish with Asiago cheese for a bold flavor, or try Parmesan for a classic taste. The spinach wilts beautifully into the warm farro, adding color and nutrients.
For the best results, cook your farro in broth instead of water to enhance the flavor. Add the spinach and cheese at the end of cooking, stirring until everything is well combined and the cheese melts.
This versatile side pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can stand alone as a light meal.
10. Farro Salad with Arugula and Apples
This refreshing farro salad combines nutty grains with peppery arugula and crisp apples for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chewy farro creates a hearty base that holds up well against the fresh ingredients.
You can enhance the salad with other add-ins like chopped dates, radicchio, or sunflower seeds. Many recipes recommend cooking the farro in apple cider to add a subtle sweetness.
A tangy lemon or citrus vinaigrette brings everything together. Some versions include shaved Parmesan cheese for a savory element.
This versatile dish works as both a side and a main meal. You can prepare it ahead of time as the flavors continue to develop when refrigerated.
11. Farro with Kale and Feta
This hearty combination brings together nutty farro, nutritious kale, and tangy feta cheese for a delicious side dish. The chewy texture of farro pairs perfectly with the slight bitterness of kale.
You can prepare this dish in one pot, making cleanup easy. Start by cooking farro in broth instead of water for extra flavor. Add garlic, onions, and seasonings like thyme or smoked paprika.
Fold in fresh kale until it wilts, then top with crumbled feta cheese. A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors. This versatile side works well with chicken, fish, or as a standalone vegetarian meal.
12. Lemon-Garlic Farro
Lemon-garlic farro brings bright, zesty flavors to this nutty grain. The combination creates a perfect balance that works well with many main dishes.
To prepare it, cook farro in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. While the farro cooks, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
Once the farro is tender, toss it with the garlic oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for color and freshness.
You can enhance this dish by adding sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a more substantial side. The lemony, garlicky flavors will make this farro a standout on your dinner table.
13. Herbed Farro with Roasted Vegetables
Herbed farro with roasted vegetables combines hearty grains with colorful, caramelized vegetables for a nutritious side dish. The nutty flavor of farro pairs perfectly with herbs like chives, parsley, and thyme.
You can customize this dish with your favorite seasonal vegetables. Try butternut squash, cauliflower, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for delicious variations.
For the best flavor, cook your farro in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. Once cooked, toss the warm farro with roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and a simple balsamic vinaigrette.
This versatile side dish works well alongside grilled meats or can stand alone as a light vegetarian meal.
14. Spring Farro Pilaf
Spring Farro Pilaf brings fresh, seasonal flavors to your table. This light yet satisfying side dish combines chewy farro with spring vegetables like asparagus, peas, and tender greens.
To make this pilaf, cook farro in vegetable or chicken broth until tender but still pleasantly chewy. This takes about 25-30 minutes for most types of farro.
Once cooked, toss your farro with lightly sautéed spring vegetables. Add fresh herbs like mint, dill, or parsley for brightness.
Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil. For extra flavor, mix in some crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts before serving.
15. Farro with Roasted Beets and Walnuts
This vibrant dish combines nutty farro with sweet roasted beets and crunchy walnuts. The earthy flavors work perfectly together to create a nutritious and satisfying side dish.
To prepare, cook farro until tender and roast beets until they’re soft and caramelized. Mix them together and add toasted walnuts for a delightful crunch.
You can enhance the flavor by adding a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Some recipes also include arugula or beet greens for extra nutrition and color.
For a more complex flavor profile, consider adding goat cheese or feta. This dish works well served warm or at room temperature.
16. Mediterranean Farro Bowl
Mediterranean Farro Bowls bring together the nutty taste of farro with classic Mediterranean ingredients.
Cook farro until tender but still chewy, then top with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and kalamata olives. Add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy flavor boost.
Chickpeas provide extra protein and texture to make this side dish more filling. Dress your bowl with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint for brightness. You can serve this bowl warm or cold, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
17. Farro with Butternut Squash and Pecans
This hearty side dish combines nutty farro with sweet roasted butternut squash and crunchy pecans. It’s a perfect blend of textures and fall flavors.
To make this dish, you’ll need farro, cubed butternut squash, pecans, olive oil, and seasonings. Some recipes add a smoky element with alderwood smoked sea salt or Market Harvest Spice blend.
Roast the butternut squash until tender and caramelized while cooking the farro until chewy but tender. Combine them with toasted pecans and a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
This versatile side works well with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian meal. At just about 210 calories per serving, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.
18. Tuscan Farro Soup
Tuscan Farro Soup combines the nutty flavor of farro with hearty vegetables in a warming, comforting bowl. This Italian-inspired dish features farro, white beans, spinach, carrots, and fire-roasted tomatoes.
The soup is both nourishing and satisfying, making it perfect for chilly days.
You can prepare it in one pot, which means less cleanup afterward. For an authentic Tuscan touch, add some pancetta and garlic to enhance the flavor profile.
The combination of protein-rich beans and fiber-packed farro creates a filling meal that can serve as both a side dish or a main course.
19. Farro with Asparagus and Almonds
This spring-inspired dish combines the nutty taste of farro with fresh asparagus and crunchy almonds. The chewy texture of the grain creates a perfect base for the slightly crisp asparagus.
You can enhance this side dish with a tangy vinaigrette or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. For added richness, consider sprinkling some Parmesan or feta cheese on top.
The almonds provide a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. Toast them lightly before adding to bring out their flavor. This nutritious combination works well as a side for fish or chicken, or can stand alone as a light meal. It’s especially delicious when asparagus is in season.
20. Farro Risotto with Peas
Farro risotto with peas, also called farrotto, offers a nutritious twist on classic risotto. This hearty dish swaps traditional rice for farro, giving it a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Fresh spring peas add a pop of color and sweetness to the dish. You can use frozen peas if fresh ones aren’t available.
Many recipes include mint and pistachios for extra flavor and crunch. Leeks also work well as a base, providing a mild onion flavor.
The cooking method is similar to making rice risotto – slowly adding liquid until the farro becomes creamy while maintaining its distinctive texture.
21. Farro with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives
Farro with sun-dried tomatoes and olives creates a Mediterranean-inspired side dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful. The chewy texture of farro pairs perfectly with the intense sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the briny punch of olives.
To prepare this dish, cook farro until tender but still slightly firm. While it cooks, chop your sun-dried tomatoes and prepare your olive mix—kalamata olives work particularly well here.
Toss the cooked farro with the tomatoes, olives, a splash of olive oil, and some lemon juice for brightness.
You can enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like basil or parsley and a sprinkle of feta cheese if desired.
Understanding Farro
Farro is an ancient grain with a rich history dating back thousands of years to Mesopotamia. Its nutty flavor and chewy texture make it a versatile addition to many dishes, while its impressive nutritional profile has earned it superfood status in modern cuisine.
Types of Farro
Farro actually refers to three different wheat species: einkorn (farro piccolo), emmer (farro medio), and spelt (farro grande). Emmer farro is the most common variety found in stores in the United States.
When shopping, you’ll encounter three different processing options:
- Whole farro: Contains the entire grain with all its nutrients but requires the longest cooking time (about 30-40 minutes)
- Semi-pearled farro: Has part of the bran removed, cooking in approximately 25-30 minutes
- Pearled farro: Has all the bran removed, cooking the quickest (15-20 minutes) but with fewer nutrients
Most farro sold in U.S. supermarkets is pearled or semi-pearled. Always check package instructions for specific cooking times.
Nutritional Benefits
Farro delivers impressive nutrition in every chewy bite. A quarter-cup serving of dry farro (about one cup cooked) provides:
- Protein: 7-8 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
- Iron: 10% of daily needs
- Magnesium: 15% of daily needs
The grain is also rich in antioxidants and contains more protein than many other popular grains like rice or quinoa. Farro’s high fiber content helps you feel full longer and supports healthy digestion.
Unlike some grains, farro contains a type of carbohydrate called cyanogenic glucosides, which may help boost your immune system. Its low glycemic index means it won’t cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, making it suitable for maintaining steady energy levels throughout the day.
Cooking Techniques for Farro
Farro requires specific cooking methods to achieve its perfect chewy texture and nutty flavor. The right technique will help you transform this ancient grain into a delicious side dish that complements almost any meal.
How to Prepare Farro
Before cooking farro, rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust or debris.
For the best results, use the boiling method: bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the rinsed farro, and cook until tender but still chewy.
Pearled farro typically takes about 15 minutes, while semi-pearled needs 20-25 minutes. Whole farro requires longer cooking time, usually 25-40 minutes.
You can tell farro is done when it’s tender but still has a pleasant bite. Test a few grains to check doneness. Drain any excess water when finished.
For a time-saving technique, try soaking whole farro overnight to reduce cooking time by about 15 minutes. Using a pressure cooker cuts cooking time to just 10-12 minutes for all varieties.
Flavor Enhancements
Replace plain water with vegetable or chicken broth to infuse your farro with savory depth. For each cup of farro, use 2-3 cups of broth depending on your preferred texture.
Add aromatic ingredients during cooking for enhanced flavor:
- Garlic cloves: Add 2-3 smashed cloves.
- Fresh herbs: Add thyme, bay leaves, or rosemary sprigs.
- Spices: Add toasted cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika.
Toast the dry farro in a tablespoon of olive oil before adding liquid. This quick step brings out the grain’s nutty qualities and adds complexity to your dish.
For a Mediterranean twist, finish cooked farro with a drizzle of good olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh herbs. Browned butter with sage makes an excellent autumn-inspired finishing touch.
