Caprese Farro Salad

There’s something truly special about the combination of flavors in a Caprese Farro Salad. When I first stumbled upon this dish during a summer picnic, it was love at first bite. The vibrant colors of the juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil seemed to sing in harmony, celebrating the essence of summer. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and I often find myself preparing it for family gatherings, where discussions flow as freely as the flavors in this salad. Every bite transports me back to that picnic, where laughter and joy were just as abundant as the ingredients. It’s a personal favorite that’s not just easy to whip up but also a delightful way to enjoy the season’s best offerings.

Caprese Farro Salad Ingredients

The ingredients in this Caprese Farro Salad come together in a delightful manner. The earthiness of the farro balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a well-rounded dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup Farro, uncooked: A hearty grain that provides a chewy texture and nutty flavor, farro is the star of this salad.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half: These sweet little gems add brightness and juiciness to the dish.
• 1 large handful baby spinach: Fresh and vibrant, baby spinach offers a mild flavor and loads of nutrients.
• 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or 1/2 inch mozzarella cubes: The creamy texture of mozzarella is essential, bringing a rich element to balance the acidity.
• 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped: Basil enhances the salad with its aromatic, slightly sweet flavor.
• 3-4 tablespoons olive oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil ties all the flavors together and adds richness.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Introducing a hint of garlic elevates the dish with a subtle kick.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: It adds a tangy sweetness that complements the fresh ingredients perfectly.
• Sea salt and cracked pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor in the salad.

Step by Step Instructions for Caprese Farro Salad

Making a Caprese Farro Salad is a simple and enjoyable process. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. You’ll find that each step is straightforward and rewarding, resulting in a beautiful salad.

1. Start by cooking the farro according to package instructions. Make sure to use plenty of water and a pinch of salt for flavor. Once cooked, the farro should be tender yet slightly chewy, which gives the salad a lovely texture.
2. After the farro is ready, drain it well. In a medium bowl, toss the warm farro with the baby spinach. The heat from the farro will gently wilt the spinach, making it tender without losing its vibrant color.
3. Next, add the minced garlic, chopped basil, and halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl. Each of these ingredients adds a unique flavor profile that complements the others beautifully.
4. Now it’s time to dress the salad. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt and cracked pepper. Toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated in the dressing.
5. Allow the salad to cool for a few minutes; this will help the flavors meld together. You can eat it slightly warm or let it chill for 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator if you prefer it cold.
6. Finally, add the mozzarella pearls or cubes to the salad, tossing gently to combine. The creamy mozzarella adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite satisfying.
7. Plate the salad and enjoy immediately, or store it in the refrigerator for later. This salad is best enjoyed within a couple of days for the freshest flavors.

Make It Your Own

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Caprese Farro Salad. Here are some tips to help you customize it to your liking:

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein, making it more filling.
• Try Different Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or arugula to change the flavor profile.
• Make it a Meal: Serve it alongside grilled fish or a protein of your choice for a complete meal.
• Adjust the Dressing: For a creamier version, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
• Seasonal Touches: In the fall, consider adding roasted squash for a warm, cozy twist.

Pairing Suggestions for Caprese Farro Salad

Serving a Caprese Farro Salad opens up a world of delicious pairing possibilities. Here are some ideas to complement this refreshing dish:

• Grilled Vegetables: Perfect alongside grilled zucchini or eggplant, providing a smoky contrast to the salad’s freshness.
• Light Proteins: Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and light.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a baguette makes for a wonderful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
• Picnic Perfect: This salad is a fantastic addition to any picnic. Serve it in individual containers for easy enjoyment outdoors.
• Seasonal Salads: Combine with a fruit salad for a refreshing summer meal or a warm roasted vegetable salad in the fall.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes for a refreshing drink alongside this salad.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Caprese Farro Salad is a celebration of summer flavors, bringing together fresh ingredients that nourish both body and soul. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that reminds us of sunny days and shared meals with loved ones. I encourage you to try making it tonight and see how this simple salad can elevate your dining experience. You’ll find it’s a wonderful addition to any meal, and before you know it, it might just become a family favorite!

Caprese Farro Salad

The perfect summer dish, a Caprese Farro Salad is fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. This easy weeknight dinner combines nutty farro, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, creating a delightful medley. Make it tonight for a taste of summer!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Salads

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Farro uncooked
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes sliced in half
• 1 large handful baby spinach
• 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or 1/2 inch mozzarella cubes
• 1/3 cup fresh basil chopped
• 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 garlic clove minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Sea salt and cracked pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Cook farro according to package instructions.
• When farro is ready, drain and then toss spinach with farro in a medium bowl to wilt spinach.
• Add in garlic, basil, tomatoes, balsamic, olive oil and salt and pepper. Toss to coat all ingredients.
• Allow to cool for a few minutes and then add in mozzarella and toss to combine.
• You can eat this slightly warm or allow to chill for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop!
• Freezing: This salad is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the ingredients will change.
• Ingredient Quality: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Texture Play: Experiment with adding crunchy elements like nuts or seeds for a delightful contrast in texture.

Keyword Caprese Salad, Easy Picnic Salad, Farro Salad Recipe, Fresh Summer Salad

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!