Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cfarro
- 1 capple cider
- 2 tspkosher salt
more as needed
- 2bay leaves
- 8 tbspextra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbspfresh lemon juice
- 70 gparmesan cheese
shaved with a vegetable peeler, 1/2 cup
- 70 gchopped pistachio nuts
1/2 cup
- 2 carugula leaves
- 1 cparsley or basil leaves
torn
- 1 cmint leaves
- ¾ chalved cherry or grape tomatoes
- ⅓ cthinly sliced radish
- maldon or other flaky sea salt
for finishing
Directions
- 1
In a medium saucepan, bring farro, apple cider, salt, bay leaves and 2 cups water to a simmer. Simmer until farro is tender and liquid evaporates, about 30 minutes. If all the liquid evaporates before the farro is done, add a little more water. Let farro cool, then discard bay leaves.
- 2
In a salad bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Add farro, cheese and pistachio nuts and mix well. This salad base will keep for up to 4 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator (bring to room temperature before serving). Just before serving, fold in arugula, herbs, tomatoes, radish and flaky salt to taste.
Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad
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About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, satisfying meal that feels special but fits into your busy week? Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad brings the sophisticated flavors of a restaurant grain bowl right to your table, perfect for a nourishing lunch or a light, elegant dinner.
What truly elevates this farro salad are two crucial elements. First, the farro itself is cooked with a thoughtful blend of apple cider, bay leaves, and ample salt, ensuring it’s wonderfully flavorful and seasoned from the inside out. Second, the dressing relies on a generous amount of very good extra-virgin olive oil, creating a rich, luxurious base that ties all the components together beautifully.
Expect a delightful interplay of textures and tastes with every bite. You'll savor the hearty, chewy farro, the satisfying crunch of chopped pistachio nuts, and the bright, peppery bite of fresh arugula and thinly sliced radishes. Juicy halved cherry or grape tomatoes add bursts of sweetness and acidity, complemented by the fresh, aromatic medley of parsley, basil, and mint leaves. Shaved Parmesan cheese contributes a savory, salty depth, making this vegetarian dish incredibly fulfilling and balanced. Each serving offers 398 calories, making it a substantial and wholesome choice.
This recipe is quite adaptable to your pantry. You can easily swap between fresh parsley or basil leaves, or use a combination, depending on your preference. While cherry or grape tomatoes are specified, any small, ripe, and juicy tomato will work well. The use of flaky sea salt as a finish adds a final touch of brightness and texture, making the flavors truly pop.
Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad is a versatile dish that shines as a main course for a casual weeknight meal or an impressive lunch. It’s also fantastic for meal prep, offering a delicious and wholesome option ready to go.