Are you looking for a healthy and delicious side dish to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests at your next gathering? Look no further! This farro side dish recipe is incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and surprisingly versatile. It’s the perfect complement to roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even a simple salad. Ready to discover a new favorite? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 cup farro
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
This farro recipe is a breeze to prepare, even for beginner cooks. Follow these simple steps for a perfect side dish every time.
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Rinse the farro: Rinse the farro under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any excess starch and ensures a fluffier final product.
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Cook the farro: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed farro and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the farro is tender but still slightly chewy. Check the instructions on your farro package, as cooking times may vary slightly depending on the brand.
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Prepare the vegetables: While the farro is cooking, chop the red onion, cucumber, and parsley.
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Combine ingredients: Once the farro is cooked, drain any excess liquid. In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro, chopped red onion, cucumber, and parsley.
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Dress the farro: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the farro mixture and toss gently to combine.
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Serve: If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top before serving. This farro side dish is best served warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Tips for the Best Farro Side Dish:
- Don't overcook the farro: Overcooked farro can become mushy. Aim for a slightly chewy texture.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add other vegetables: Get creative with your vegetables! This recipe works well with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Make it ahead: This farro side dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Farro Salad: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Farro Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes and a squeeze of lime juice for a spicy kick.
- Roasted Vegetable Farro: Roast your favorite vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts) and add them to the farro for a heartier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 7-8 grams
- Fiber: 5-6 grams
This farro side dish is a perfect example of healthy and delicious homemade cooking. It's quick, easy, and incredibly versatile, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!