Citrus Herb Farro and Tomato Bowl (Printable Version)
Nutty farro with tomatoes, cucumber, and chickpeas in a bright citrus-herb vinaigrette.
# Ingredient List:
→ Grains
01 - 1 cup farro, uncooked
02 - 3 cups water
03 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
→ Vegetables & Legumes
04 - 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
06 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
07 - 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
→ Herbs
08 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
09 - 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
10 - 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
→ Citrus-Herb Vinaigrette
11 - Zest of 1 lemon
12 - 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
13 - 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
14 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
15 - 1 clove garlic, minced
16 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
17 - 1/2 tsp honey (optional)
18 - Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Toppings (optional)
19 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
20 - 2 tbsp toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas
# How to Make It:
01 - Rinse farro under cold water. In a medium pot, combine farro, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes, or until farro is tender but chewy. Drain any excess water and let cool slightly.
02 - In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chickpeas, parsley, mint, and basil.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until emulsified.
04 - Add the cooked farro to the vegetable and herb mixture. Drizzle with the citrus-herb vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve in bowls, topped with feta and sunflower seeds if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The farro develops this incredible nutty sweetness that balances perfectly with bright citrus
- You can prep everything ahead and the flavors actually get better overnight
02 -
- Faro continues absorbing liquid even after cooking so do not overdress if you plan to refrigerate leftovers
- The mint might seem unusual but it is absolutely essential for that fresh Mediterranean vibe
03 -
- Toast your sunflower seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant and golden
- Let the dressed salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld