Farro With Roasted Vegetables

Experience the perfect balance of textures and flavors with this hearty and wholesome Mediterranean dish. Chewy whole grain farro serves as the ideal canvas for a colorful medley of caramelized, oven-roasted vegetables, creating a meal that is as nutritious as it is delicious.

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Whether you are looking for a dairy-free lunch or a vibrant dinner option, this recipe brings together simple ingredients like zucchini, bell peppers, and balsamic vinegar to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

• Grains: 1 cup farro (uncooked), 3 cups vegetable broth or water
• Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 zucchini (diced), 1 red onion (cut into wedges), 1 medium carrot (sliced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Dressing & Finish: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2

In a large bowl, toss the diced bell pepper, zucchini, red onion wedges, sliced carrot, and halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3

Roast the vegetables for 25–30 minutes, making sure to stir them halfway through, until they are beautifully caramelized and tender.

Step 4

While the vegetables roast, rinse the farro under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the farro with vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes until tender but still chewy. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.

Step 5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked farro and roasted vegetables. Add 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and the balsamic vinegar, then toss gently to combine.

Step 6

Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and top with crumbled feta cheese if you are using it. Serve your dish warm or at room temperature.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, ensure your farro is cooked until tender but retains a distinct bite. If you use vegetable broth instead of water, it will infuse the grains with a deeper savory flavor. Be sure to double-check the labels of your broth for any hidden allergens like wheat or soy.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Feel free to customize this dish by swapping in other seasonal vegetables such as eggplant, mushrooms, or butternut squash. For a strictly vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with your favorite vegan cheese alternative.

Serviervorschläge

This farro dish pairs beautifully with protein-rich additions like grilled chicken or fish for those seeking a non-vegetarian option. It also serves as a fantastic base for a grain bowl, topped with a dollop of hummus or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

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With 320 calories and 8g of protein per serving, this Farro With Roasted Vegetables is a balanced meal that celebrates simple, whole ingredients. Enjoy the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite.

Recipe Q&A

→ What does farro taste like?

Farro has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor with a satisfyingly chewy texture similar to barley but slightly more tender. Its earthy taste pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and bright vinaigrettes.

→ Do I need to rinse farro before cooking?

Rinsing farro under cold water before cooking helps remove any dust or debris and can reduce starchiness for a fluffier final texture. It's a quick step that improves the overall quality of your dish.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. This dish actually tastes better after the flavors have time to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve chilled, at room temperature, or gently warmed.

→ Is farro gluten-free?

Traditional farro contains gluten as it's a type of wheat. For a gluten-free alternative, substitute with quinoa, buckwheat, or brown rice, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

→ What vegetables work best in this dish?

The recipe highlights Mediterranean vegetables that roast beautifully, but feel free to experiment. Eggplant, mushrooms, butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potato all work wonderfully. Aim for vegetables that caramelize well at high heat.

→ Can I use pearled farro instead of whole?

Yes. Pearled farro cooks faster in about 15-20 minutes since some bran has been removed. Adjust cooking time accordingly and check for tenderness. The flavor remains similar with a slightly softer texture.