Looking for a nutritious and versatile grain to elevate your culinary game? Look no further than farro, an ancient grain that’s making a modern comeback.
From hearty breakfast bowls to delicious risottos and fresh salads, this list of 27 filling farro recipes is sure to have something for everyone. Diverse, wholesome, and incredibly tasty, these farro recipes are your ticket to a healthier and more exciting meal plan.
1. Farro Risotto with Mushrooms and Spinach
A Classic Italian Dish with a Twist
Swap out traditional Arborio rice for farro in this hearty and nutritious risotto recipe. The nutty, chewy texture of farro pairs wonderfully with creamy mushrooms and fresh spinach, offering a unique take on the Italian classic.
A Meal for Any Occasion
This farro risotto can serve as a sophisticated dinner or a comforting weekend meal. The earthy flavors of mushrooms and spinach make it a dish that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Make it Your Own
Feel free to add Parmesan cheese or use different types of mushrooms to suit your taste preferences. This versatile dish allows for ample customization.
2. Farro Salad with Tomatoes and Basil
A Burst of Summer Flavors
Enjoy the flavors of summer any time of the year with this refreshing farro salad. Ripe cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a light vinaigrette elevate the nutty taste of farro in this recipe.
Ideal for Picnics and Gatherings
This farro salad is the perfect dish to bring to potlucks or picnics. It’s easy to assemble, and the ingredients hold well, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.
Quick and Simple
The salad is quick to put together and can easily be made in advance. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or keep it vegetarian for a lighter option.
3. Farro Breakfast Bowl with Berries and Yogurt
A Wholesome Start to the Day
Jumpstart your morning with a nutrient-packed farro breakfast bowl. Farro’s complex carbohydrates and high fiber content will keep you satiated, while the berries and yogurt add freshness and tang.
Versatile Breakfast Option
This bowl is a versatile option for breakfast, allowing you to use whatever berries you have on hand. Even switch out the yogurt for your favorite non-dairy alternative if you like.
Mix it Up
Feel like changing things up? Add some nuts or seeds for crunch, or drizzle on some honey for a touch of sweetness. This breakfast bowl is highly customizable.
4. Farro and Roasted Vegetable Soup
Comfort in a Bowl
This farro and roasted vegetable soup is the epitome of comfort food. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the nutty, chewy farro.
Nutritious and Filling
High in fiber and loaded with vitamins, this soup is not only comforting but also good for you. It’s a one-pot meal that will fill you up without weighing you down.
Tailor to Your Tastes
Feel free to add additional herbs or spices to customize the soup to your liking. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a milder flavor, this soup is easily adaptable.
5. Farro Stir-Fry with Tofu and Broccoli
A Balanced Vegan Dish
If you’re looking for a plant-based meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition, this farro stir-fry with tofu and broccoli is your answer. The farro provides a nutty base, while the tofu adds protein and the broccoli delivers a healthy dose of nutrients.
Quick Weeknight Meal
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Customize Your Stir-Fry
Switch out the tofu for tempeh or another protein source, and try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and flavor.
6. Farro and Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing
A Medley of Flavors and Textures
The nutty, chewy farro pairs perfectly with the creamy chickpeas and zesty Lemon-Tahini dressing. This salad offers an array of textures and flavors that make every bite exciting.
Ideal for Meal Prep
This is an excellent option for meal prep, as it stays fresh in the fridge for several days. Divide it into individual containers for a quick lunch or dinner.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to add more vegetables like chopped cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch, or toss in some olives for a salty kick.
7. Farro Risotto with Seafood
A Luxurious Feast
Elevate your meal with a seafood twist on traditional risotto. Farro’s chewy texture complements the delicate flavors of shrimp, scallops, or any seafood of your choice.
Read also: 21 Leftover Meatloaf Recipes For Dinner
Perfect for Special Occasions
This dish is a showstopper, ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying a romantic meal for two.
Easily Adaptable
Feel free to adjust the type and quantity of seafood according to your preferences. You could even add a touch of saffron or other spices for an exotic twist.
8. Farro, Apple, and Walnut Salad
A Crunchy Delight
This autumn-inspired salad combines the crunchiness of apples and walnuts with the chewy texture of farro. A tangy vinaigrette ties all the elements together.
Great as a Side or Main Dish
Serve this salad as a stand-alone meal or as a hearty side dish. It’s versatile and pairs well with various proteins like chicken or fish.
Customize to Your Liking
Switch out the apples for pears or the walnuts for pecans. You can also add blue cheese crumbles for a creamy, tangy contrast.
9. Farro and Pesto Stuffed Peppers
A Nutritious, Flavorful Meal
Stuffed peppers get a nutritional upgrade with farro and homemade or store-bought pesto. The grains absorb the flavors well, making every bite a delightful experience.
Ideal for Batch Cooking
This recipe is excellent for making in larger quantities. The stuffed peppers hold well and can be reheated for a quick, satisfying meal.
Flexible Ingredients
Add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for additional nutrients. If you’re not a fan of peppers, the farro and pesto mixture can be used as a stuffing for other vegetables like tomatoes or zucchini.
10. Farro Porridge with Cinnamon and Berries
A Warming Breakfast
Swap out oatmeal for farro in this comforting morning porridge. The cinnamon and berries add natural sweetness and spice, making it a warm and nourishing way to start your day.
Quick and Easy
This recipe takes minimal time and effort, making it ideal for busy mornings or a relaxed weekend brunch.
Personalize Your Porridge
Feel free to add your favorite nuts, seeds, or even a dollop of nut butter for extra flavor and nutrition.
11. Farro Pilaf with Pistachios and Raisins
A Savory and Sweet Combo
In this pilaf, farro replaces traditional rice, complemented by the crunch of pistachios and sweetness of raisins. It’s a tasty side dish that’s sure to please a crowd.
Perfect for Holiday Feasts
This dish works beautifully as part of a larger feast, perhaps as a side dish for a holiday meal. Its flavors are diverse enough to complement a variety of mains.
Versatility is Key
Replace the pistachios with other nuts like almonds or walnuts, and swap the raisins for other dried fruit like apricots or cranberries for different flavor profiles.
12. Farro and Chicken Caesar Salad
A Hearty Take on a Classic
Take your Caesar salad to the next level by adding farro. The grain’s nutty flavor and chewy texture make this more than just a side salad—it’s a full meal.
Great for Lunch or Dinner
Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the farro, this salad is satisfying enough to serve as a main course for lunch or dinner.
Customizable to Your Preferences
If you’re vegetarian, skip the chicken and add more veggies or a plant-based protein. You could also switch out the traditional Caesar dressing for a lighter vinaigrette.
13. Farro with Roasted Vegetables and Feta
A Veggie-Heavy Dish
This dish is an excellent way to use seasonal vegetables. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, which pair wonderfully with the nutty farro and tangy feta.
Suits Any Meal
Serve this versatile dish as a side or make it the star of your meal. It’s equally suitable for weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Customize to Taste
Switch out the feta for goat cheese or add some pine nuts for extra crunch. The options are endless.
14. Spiced Farro with Chickpeas
A Protein-Packed Vegan Meal
Flavored with spices like cumin and coriander, this vegan dish is both delicious and nutritious. Chickpeas add protein, making it a well-rounded meal.
Quick Weeknight Dinner
This is a one-pot dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to add other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard, or some extra veggies like bell peppers for more texture and color.
15. Farro and Mushroom Soup
A Cozy Comfort Food
This hearty soup features farro, mushrooms, and a savory broth, making it perfect for cold weather or when you’re in need of some comfort food.
Easy to Make
This is a simple, one-pot recipe that requires minimal prep work. It’s great for when you want something delicious without much effort.
Adjust to Your Liking
Use your favorite mushrooms or a mix for a variety of flavors and textures. Adding some greens like spinach can also elevate the dish.
16. Farro, Beet, and Arugula Salad
A Stunning, Nutrient-Rich Dish
The vibrant colors of beets and arugula make this salad as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. It’s nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins, and utterly delicious.
Ideal for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a regular day or a special occasion, this salad fits the bill. It can be a side dish or a stand-alone meal, especially if you add some grilled chicken or fish.
Your Salad, Your Way
Switch the arugula for other leafy greens like kale or spinach, and feel free to add some nuts or cheese for extra texture and flavor.
17. Farro and Tuna Salad
A Seafood Twist
This farro salad takes on a pescatarian twist with the addition of canned or fresh tuna. It’s a unique combination that’s both hearty and refreshing.
Perfect for Lunch
Pack this for lunch and you’ll have a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to eat on the go.
Make It Yours
You can easily substitute the tuna with other types of seafood or even grilled chicken for a different protein source.
18. Farro with Pesto and Tomatoes
A Summer Delight
Fresh tomatoes and homemade or store-bought pesto make this farro dish a perfect summer meal. It’s light yet satisfying, and bursting with flavor.
Quick and Easy
This dish comes together in no time, especially if you use pre-made pesto. It’s a great way to enjoy a quick and delicious meal.
Add Your Favorites
Add more veggies like zucchini or corn to make the dish even more seasonal. Mozzarella or burrata cheese would also be a delicious addition.
19. Farro and Cauliflower Risotto
A Creative Twist
Swap out the usual Arborio rice for farro in this inventive take on risotto. Cauliflower adds a unique texture and flavor, making the dish truly one-of-a-kind.
Comfort Food Reimagined
This is comfort food with a healthy twist, perfect for cozy evenings at home. The creaminess of the “risotto” is balanced by the nutty undertones of the farro.
Make It Your Own
Experiment with different cheeses and perhaps add a drizzle of truffle oil to make the dish extra special.
20. Farro and Citrus Salad
A Fresh and Tangy Option
This recipe brings together farro and an assortment of citrus fruits for a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. It’s a burst of sunshine on a plate.
Ideal for Brunch or Lunch
It’s light enough to serve as a starter but can easily be bulked up with some grilled protein for a main dish.
Customizable to Your Preferences
Feel free to add other fruits, nuts, or even a handful of greens to tailor it to your liking.
21. Farro with Asparagus and Lemon
Seasonal and Simple
This recipe pairs farro with asparagus and a hint of lemon, making it a perfect spring dish. It’s easy to make and oh so flavorful.
A Versatile Side
This dish could work as a side for a variety of proteins or serve as a vegetarian main course.
Tailor it to Your Taste
Don’t hesitate to add some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta to elevate it even more.
22. Pumpkin Farro Risotto
A Fall Favorite
This is an autumn-themed dish that combines the richness of pumpkin with the nutty flavor of farro. It’s hearty, warm, and perfect for a crisp fall day.
Family Dinner Winner
It’s a dish that will impress at family gatherings, yet it’s simple enough for everyday cooking.
Add Your Own Twist
Consider adding some dried cranberries or even some sage for added fall flavors.
23. Farro and Seafood Paella
An Innovative Fusion
This recipe replaces the traditional rice in paella with farro for a hearty and tasty twist. Seafood adds a splash of brininess and luxury to the dish.
Read also: 30 Meatloaf Recipes
Ideal for Special Occasions
Whether it’s a date night or a family gathering, this dish is bound to impress.
Make it Your Own
You can swap out the seafood for different proteins or add a variety of vegetables to make the dish cater to your tastes.
24. Farro with Pecans and Cranberries
A Sweet and Savory Treat
This dish marries the nuttiness of farro with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans. It’s a delightful combination that’s perfect for the holidays or any day.
Perfect for Potlucks
It’s a dish that travels well, making it perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Make It Yours
Feel free to add a splash of orange juice for extra zest or swap the pecans for another favorite nut.
25. Farro and Lentil Salad
Protein-Packed Goodness
Combining farro with lentils makes for a protein-packed, fiber-rich dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ideal for Meal Prep
This dish keeps well, so it’s ideal for meal prep. You can make it on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week.
Customize to Your Taste
Add some chopped vegetables or a sprinkle of cheese to make this hearty salad even more flavorful.
26. Farro and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
A Complete Meal
This recipe stuffs bell peppers with a mixture of farro and sausage, creating a balanced meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients.
Perfect for Family Dinners
It’s a dish that’s sure to please the whole family and looks as good as it tastes.
Customize to Your Preferences
Swap out the sausage for a plant-based alternative or add some extra veggies to suit your nutritional needs.
27. Farro and Squash Casserole
Comfort Food Elevated
This dish takes the comforting flavors of a squash casserole and pairs them with farro for a more nutrient-dense version of a classic.
Great for Holidays
This is a perfect side dish for holiday meals but can easily stand alone as a vegetarian main.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to add a sprinkle of cheese or some breadcrumbs on top for extra flavor and crunch.
Conclusion
There you have it—27 innovative and delectable farro recipes that span from breakfast to dinner, with plenty of options for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Whether you’re new to the farro scene or a seasoned aficionado, this comprehensive list provides a wealth of ideas for incorporating this ancient grain into modern meals. Not only is farro a nutritional powerhouse, but its versatility also makes it the perfect ingredient for culinary experimentation. Say goodbye to mealtime monotony and hello to a world of flavorful, nutrient-dense dishes with farro as the star.
