Hearty Detox Farro Salad Recipe

If you’re starting to rethink your life choices after nonchalantly devouring an unholy amount of takeout, let me introduce you to this vibrant Farro Detox Salad—a delightful savior in a bowl that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing. 🍅🥒✨

This Hearty Detox Farro Salad is a nutritional powerhouse. It blends farro and detox veggies into a salad that can hardly hold still for a photo because it is so full of life!

That said, you could definitely dress it and let it sit for a while and still enjoy all its flavors.

Hearty Detox Farro Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Farro: Whole grain high in fiber and protein.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories; adds crunch.
• Bell Pepper: Excellent source of vitamin C and A, adds sweetness.
• Arugula: Peppery greens high in calcium and vitamin K.
• Slivered Almonds: Adds healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.
• Lemon Juice: Provides vitamin C and a zesty flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and depth to the dressing.

Hearty Detox Farro Salad Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup farro, rinsed
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup arugula or spinach
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make this Hearty Detox Farro Salad Recipe

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the farro that has been rinsed, 3 cups of water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the farro is tender. Drain off any excess water and cool before using.

2. As the farro cooks, the vegetables can be prepared. The cherry tomatoes can be halved, the cucumber and bell pepper can be diced, and the red onion can be chopped finely.

3. In a generously sized mixing bowl, combine the farro that has been cooked, the halved cherry tomatoes, and the other solid-wedged ingredients: the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Add the arugula or baby spinach and the dressing, then toss to combine. This dish can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold.

4. Add the freshly chopped parsley to the salad mixture and toss everything together.

5. Add the crumbled feta cheese to the salad, if using, and stir until evenly distributed.

6. In a small dry skillet, toast the almond slivers over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from the heat and add to the salad.

7. Whisk together in a small bowl the following:
• olive oil
• lemon juice
• apple cider vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt
• and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

8. Dress the salad with the dressing, and toss it well to make sure the ensuing ingredients are nicely cloaked.

9. Season to taste with extra salt and pepper, if you wish.

10. Serve right away or refrigerate the salad for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving. Enjoy your Farro Detox Salad!

Hearty Detox Farro Salad Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Medium saucepan
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Large mixing bowl
7. Small dry skillet
8. Whisk
9. Small bowl
10. Colander or sieve

FAQ

• Can I use a different grain instead of farro?Indeed, you can replace farro with barley, quinoa, or brown rice while achieving a similarly textured and nutritious dish.
• Is there a substitute for feta cheese?A vegan option is available. You can skip the feta or use a plant-based feta cheese. Goat cheese makes a fine substitute.
• Can this salad be made ahead of time?Certainly! This salad can be made a day ahead. Just toss in the arugula or spinach and almonds right before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.
• How do I toast the almonds?To toast the almonds, put them in a skillet that is dry and over medium heat. Stir them very often for around 3-5 minutes. You will know they are done when they look golden, and you can smell the almond fragrance.
• What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?Apple cider vinegar can be replaced with white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar for a flavor that is slightly different.
• How long will leftovers last in the fridge?You can store the salad in the fridge; it will keep for a maximum of 3 days when enclosed in an airtight container.
• Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?You can replace the farro with quinoa or brown rice to make it gluten-free. Yes, you can.

Hearty Detox Farro Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Farro: Substitute with quinoa or barley for an option that has no gluten, or for a different texture.
Grape tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can work better if you want a flavor boost in your dish.
Cucumber: Zucchini or celery can substitute for cucumber when a dish calls for it. They have a similar crunch and moisture content.

What won’t work: Carrot or green bell pepper, in cases where you want a very neutral flavor. Zucchini is the most similar in taste and texture.
Roasted red peppers or sweet corn can replace bell peppers; they add a flavorful twist.
Feta Cheese: Substitute with goat cheese or omit for a salad that is free of dairy.

Pro Tips

1. Cook Farro in Broth: For extra flavor, consider cooking the farro in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. This will enhance the overall taste of the salad.