Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This hearty farro soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for chilly evenings or a satisfying lunch. It's one of those easy recipes that feels incredibly homemade and comforting, yet comes together quickly. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup farro
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
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Add the broth and farro: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the farro. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the farro is tender but still slightly chewy. Don't peek too often – it helps the farro cook evenly!
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Stir in tomatoes and greens: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and cook for 5 minutes. Add the kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. This healthy meal is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Farro Soup:
- Rinse your farro: Before adding the farro to the soup, rinse it under cold water to remove any excess starch. This will help prevent the soup from becoming too thick.
- Don't overcook the farro: Farro should be tender but still have a slight bite. Overcooked farro can become mushy.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your soup, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Make it a complete protein: Add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or lentils for a more protein-rich meal.
Variations:
- Lemon Farro Soup: Add the zest and juice of one lemon at the end of cooking for a bright and zesty twist.
- Spicy Farro Soup: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy Farro Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Fiber: 8-10 grams
This delicious and healthy farro soup is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both satisfying and nutritious. The recipe is easily adaptable to your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy this best recipe and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!