Description
Charlie Bird’s famous farro salad blends Mediterranean flavors with fresh herbs and roasted corn. Crisp vegetables and nutty grains combine for a refreshing summer dish you’ll crave at backyard gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (240 ml) pearled farro
- 2 cups (480 ml) arugula (baby arugula preferred)
- ½ cup (120 ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup (60 ml) shaved Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup (60 ml) fresh basil or mint leaves (or a mix), torn
- ¼ cup (60 ml) radishes, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider
- 2 cups (480 ml) water
- ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Farro Foundation: Combine farro with apple cider and water in a medium saucepan, seasoning with salt to elevate the grain’s natural essence.
- Liquid Transformation: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat, allowing farro to simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until tender yet maintaining a delightful al dente texture. Drain excess liquid and spread on a flat surface to cool completely.
- Citrus Elixir Dressing: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest together, seasoning with salt and pepper to create a bright, tangy flavor profile.
- Salad Symphony: In a generous mixing bowl, unite the cooled farro with peppery arugula, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp radishes, aromatic fresh herbs, and half the Parmesan cheese. Drizzle the citrus dressing, gently tossing to ensure harmonious coating.
- Finishing Flourish: Crown the salad with remaining Parmesan shavings and a delicate sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve immediately to capture the peak of freshness, or briefly chill to allow flavors to intermingle and intensify.
Notes
- Master Farro Cooking: Ensure precise liquid ratio by using equal parts apple cider and water for rich, tangy flavor absorption.
- Prevent Mushy Texture: Watch cooking time carefully, checking farro at 25-minute mark to maintain perfect al dente consistency and avoid overcooking.
- Enhance Herb Freshness: Chop herbs just before adding to preserve vibrant color, intense aroma, and maximum flavor profile in the salad.
- Customize Dietary Needs: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for vegan version or add grilled chicken for extra protein, making this versatile salad adaptable to various dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg