Get ready to transform your meal routine with a show-stopping salad that's about to become your new obsession! This Apple Pecan Farro Salad isn't just another boring side dish – it's a symphony of textures and flavors that will transport you to a cozy autumn afternoon. Imagine perfectly chewy farro dancing with crisp apple chunks, toasted pecans adding a delightful crunch, and a maple vinaigrette that ties everything together in pure culinary magic. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply someone who loves mind-blowing flavor combinations, this recipe is your ticket to an unforgettable dining experience.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro
- 2 apples, diced
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the farro under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any debris or dust.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1 cup of rinsed farro with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the farro simmer for about 25 minutes, or until it is tender but still chewy. Stir occasionally and check for doneness.
- While the farro is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Dice the 2 apples into small cubes, ensuring to remove the core and seeds. Set aside in a bowl.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the 1/2 cup of pecans for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them.
- Once the pecans are toasted, remove them from the skillet and let them cool slightly before chopping them into smaller pieces if desired.
- In a small bowl, prepare the maple vinaigrette by whisking together 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- After the farro is cooked, drain any excess water and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Add the diced apples, toasted pecans, 1/4 cup of dried cranberries, and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the farro.
- Pour the maple vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Serve the apple pecan farro salad warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!
Tips
- Farro Perfection: Rinse your farro thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or debris. The key is to cook it until it's tender but still has a slight bite – think al dente, but for grains!
- Toasting Nuts 101: When toasting pecans, watch them like a hawk! They can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds. Use a dry skillet and keep them moving to ensure even toasting.
- Apple Selection Matters: Choose crisp, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to add a bright, fresh element to your salad.
- Vinaigrette Hack: Make your maple vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making your dressing even more delicious.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm as a hearty side dish, or chill it for a refreshing lunch. It's perfect for meal prep and actually tastes even better the next day!
- Customization is Key: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have. Goat cheese instead of feta? Go for it! Swap dried cranberries for dried cherries? Absolutely delicious!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
