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At the heart of this cozy salad lies farro, an ancient grain with a rich history dating back to the civilizations of the Mediterranean. Farro is a type of wheat, often referred to as emmer or spelt, and has been a staple in diets for thousands of years. Its nutty flavor and chewy texture make it a perfect base for salads, soups, and grain bowls.

Warm Farro Salad with Apples Cranberries

Embrace the flavors of fall with this Cozy Harvest Farro Salad, featuring a delightful mix of crunchy apples, tart cranberries, and toasted walnuts. This nutritious grain-based salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits, including fiber and essential nutrients. Perfect as a hearty main or a vibrant side dish, it’s an ideal addition to your autumn meals. Discover how to create this comforting, seasonal favorite that celebrates the bounty of the harvest.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup farro

3 cups water or vegetable broth

1 medium apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), diced

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but recommended)

Fresh parsley or baby arugula leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Farro: Start by rinsing the farro under cold running water in a sieve or fine-mesh strainer. This removes any excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed farro and the 3 cups of water (or vegetable broth for added flavor). Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes. The farro is ready when it's tender yet retains a nice chewy texture. Once cooked, drain any remaining liquid.

    Prepare the Dressing: While the farro cooks, gather a small bowl and whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you choose to use ground cinnamon, add that as well. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and uniform in consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked farro that has cooled slightly. Then, fold in the diced apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese (if desired). Drizzle the prepared dressing over the mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing, ensuring the flavors mingle beautifully.

        Serve Warm: Allow the salad to rest for about 5-10 minutes at room temperature. This resting time lets the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste. When ready to serve, garnish the salad with a handful of fresh parsley or a few arugula leaves for an added touch of color and freshness.

          Enjoy: This delightful warm farro salad can be enjoyed as a nourishing main course or served as a hearty side dish to complement your meal!

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4