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In the world of healthy grains, farro stands out as a powerhouse of nutrition. This ancient grain, often celebrated for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, has made its way into modern kitchens as a staple for health-conscious eaters. Packed with essential nutrients, farro is not only a delicious addition to your meals but also a versatile ingredient that can elevate simple recipes into culinary masterpieces. One such creation is the Citrus Kissed Farro Salad—a vibrant, refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and offers a myriad of health benefits.

Citrus Kissed Farro Salad

Discover the refreshing Citrus Kissed Farro Salad, a nutritious dish that showcases ancient farro—a grain rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of farro with zesty citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, along with fresh vegetables and herbs for a burst of flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is both satisfying and visually appealing, making it an ideal addition to your healthy meal rotation. Enjoy the delicious taste and numerous health benefits today!

Ingredients
  

1 cup farro

2 cups vegetable broth (or water)

1 medium orange, zested and juiced (about 1/4 cup juice)

1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for a creamy finish)

1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts, chopped (for a lovely crunch)

Instructions
 

Cook the Farro: Start by rinsing the farro thoroughly under cold water. Then, in a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth or water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed farro. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and allow the farro to simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until it becomes tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If there’s any excess liquid, you can drain it off. After cooking, set the farro aside to cool.

    Prepare the Dressing: While the farro cools, whisk together the dressing in a small bowl. Combine the orange juice, lemon juice, orange zest, lemon zest, olive oil, honey (if using), sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are well blended.

      Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled farro, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.

        Finish with Cheese and Nuts: If you’re including feta for an added layer of creaminess, sprinkle the crumbled cheese over the top. Additionally, add the toasted nuts for a crunchy texture. Gently toss everything together to ensure the dressing evenly coats the ingredients.

          Chill and Serve: Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate it for a chilled serving. This rest period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

              - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl and garnish with extra parsley and a few slices of citrus on top for a vibrant look.