When it comes to grains, farro often takes a backseat to more popular options like quinoa or brown rice. But this ancient Italian staple deserves some love! Farro’s nutty flavor and chewy texture make it a great addition to a wide range of dishes – from hearty salads to comforting casseroles. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, farro is the perfect ingredient to elevate your cooking game.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious farro recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic Mediterranean-inspired dishes to creative twists on traditional comfort foods, there’s something for everyone in this collection of tasty and easy-to-make farro recipes.
Lemon Herb Farro Salad
Lemon Herb Farro Salad Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for spring and summer gatherings. This recipe combines the nutty taste of farro with the brightness of lemon, herbs, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and basil.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Note: Cooking time includes the time it takes to cook the farro according to package instructions.
Roasted Vegetable Farro Bowl
Roasted Vegetable Farro Bowl Recipe
Elevate your meal game with this hearty and flavorful Roasted Vegetable Farro Bowl recipe! A symphony of roasted vegetables, nutty farro, and creamy sauce come together in a satisfying and nutritious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook farro according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. Toss sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. Add garlic and continue roasting for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked farro, roasted vegetables, and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Serve hot garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Creamy Farro Risotto with Mushrooms
A hearty and comforting dish that combines the nutty flavor of farro with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When all broth is absorbed, stir in cooked farro, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Farro and Kale Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of farro with the earthy taste of kale and sweet bell peppers for a nutritious and flavorful dish. Perfect as a main course or side, this recipe is easy to make and packed with fiber and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, chopped kale, cheddar cheese (if using), olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the farro-kale mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Farro with Feta and Olives
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean in this hearty, one-pot dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring farro and water or broth to a boil in a large saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until farro is tender.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced olives to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Stir cooked farro into the skillet with the olive mixture.
5. Crumble feta cheese over the top of the farro mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Farro and Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the nutty flavor of farro with the spicy kick of jalapeños, all wrapped up in a rich and savory black bean broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add bell pepper and jalapeños; cook 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add black beans, farro, and water. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Farro Pilaf with Toasted Almonds
This hearty pilaf combines nutty farro with roasted vegetables and toasted almonds, perfect for a satisfying side dish or light meal. The addition of flavorful herbs and spices adds depth to this comforting grain bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook farro according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper and zucchini; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Fluff cooked farro with a fork and combine with roasted vegetables.
7. Top with parsley and toasted almonds.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes.
Farro Breakfast Porridge with Berries
Start your day off right with this nutritious breakfast porridge, packed with fiber-rich farro and sweet-tart berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup cooked farro
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine oats, farro, and salt.
2. Add in almond milk and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, or until porridge has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in honey and cinnamon until well combined.
5. Gently fold in mixed berries.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Farro and Chickpea Stew
This warming stew is a perfect comfort food for any day. With the nutty flavor of farro, creamy chickpeas, and tender vegetables, it’s a delightful combination that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
3. Add chickpeas, vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and oregano. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the stew has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked farro to the stew and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Farro Casserole
This casserole combines the nutty flavor of farro with the rich, savory taste of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook farro according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked farro, chicken broth, and garlic mixture in a large bowl. Mix well.
5. Transfer the farro mixture to a baking dish and top with parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Farro and Avocado Sushi Rolls
Experience the creamy texture of avocado and nutty flavor of farro in this innovative sushi roll recipe. Perfect for a unique dinner or lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice (preferably Koshihikari)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the farro by cooking according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cooked farro and mashed avocado until well combined.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place the farro-avocado mixture in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or a clean tea towel. Slice into 8 equal pieces.
6. Serve with soy sauce and sesame oil for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Farro Tabbouleh with Fresh Herbs
Tabbouleh, a classic Middle Eastern salad, gets a flavorful twist with the addition of farro, an ancient Italian grain. This refreshing side dish is perfect for warm weather and pairs well with grilled meats or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, parsley, mint leaves, scallions, and garlic.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Farro and Butternut Squash Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of nutty farro, sweet butternut squash, and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 cups farro
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook farro according to package instructions.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in remaining olive oil over medium heat until softened.
5. Add roasted squash, broth, cooked farro, and heavy cream. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Farro Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce
This hearty and flavorful stir-fry combines nutty farro with crunchy vegetables and a savory sesame ginger sauce, making it a perfect quick and easy dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broccoli and carrots; cook, stirring frequently, until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked farro, ginger, soy sauce, and honey.
5. Cook, stirring constantly, for an additional 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Farro and Goat Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, hollowed out
– 1 cup farro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, cook farro according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stuff each tomato with cooked farro, crumbled goat cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Place stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tomatoes are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Farro Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast by trying Farro Pancakes with Maple Syrup! This recipe combines the nutty flavor of farro with the sweetness of maple syrup for a perfect morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 tablespoon melted butter, cooled slightly
– Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cooked farro, flour, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat eggs until frothy. Add milk and whisk until combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1 minute.
6. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
Farro and Roasted Beet Salad
A vibrant and earthy salad that combines the nutty flavor of farro with the natural sweetness of roasted beets.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro, rinsed and drained
– 2 large beets, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine farro and cubed beets.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Spread the farro-beet mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes or until the beets are tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey.
6. Once the farro-beet mixture has cooled slightly, pour the vinegar-honey dressing over it. Toss to combine.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Farro and Sweet Potato Hash
This flavorful hash combines nutty farro with roasted sweet potatoes, crispy onions, and a hint of sage. Perfect for a comforting winter meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook sliced onions over medium heat with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic and sage to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked farro, roasted sweet potatoes, and onion mixture in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of farro with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From hearty bowls to light and refreshing salads, there’s something for every occasion. Try making a Lemon Herb Farro Salad or a Roasted Vegetable Farro Bowl for a healthy and flavorful meal. For something more indulgent, whip up a Creamy Farro Risotto with Mushrooms or Garlic Parmesan Farro Casserole. Or get creative with Farro Pilaf with Toasted Almonds, Farro Breakfast Porridge with Berries, or even Farro Pancakes with Maple Syrup! These recipes showcase the many uses of farro and are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
