Discover the delightful flavors of Italy right in your own kitchen with this irresistible recipe for Farro with Cherry Tomatoes! This simple yet satisfying dish combines the nutty taste of farro with the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, creating a culinary experience that will transport you to sun-drenched Mediterranean shores. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend gatherings, this slow cooker recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with freshness and flavor. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the delicious world of farro and unlock the secrets to making this mouthwatering dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the farro thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dust or debris, then drain well.
- In a large slow cooker, combine the rinsed farro, vegetable broth, halved cherry tomatoes, and minced garlic.
- Drizzle olive oil over the ingredients and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Stir all ingredients gently to ensure even distribution of seasonings and tomatoes throughout the farro.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting, allowing the farro to cook slowly for 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, check the farro for tenderness. The grains should be soft but still have a slight chewy texture, and most of the liquid should be absorbed.
- Once cooked, let the farro rest uncovered for 5-10 minutes to allow any remaining liquid to be absorbed.
- Fluff the farro gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves just before serving to add a bright, aromatic finish.
- Serve warm as a side dish or light main course, optionally drizzling with additional olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Rinse the Farro: Always rinse the farro under cold water before cooking to remove any dust or debris, ensuring a clean and tasty result.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh cherry tomatoes and high-quality vegetable broth for the best flavor. Organic ingredients can elevate the dish even further!
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, making your dish more vibrant.
- Check for Doneness: After 4 hours of cooking, check the farro for tenderness. It should be soft yet slightly chewy; if it’s too firm, let it cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Let it Rest: Allow the farro to rest uncovered for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps absorb any remaining liquid and improves the texture.
- Garnish for Freshness: Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the dish. Tear the leaves just before serving to keep them vibrant and fragrant.
- Versatile Serving Options: This farro dish can be served warm as a side or a light main course. Consider pairing it with grilled vegetables or a protein of your choice for a complete meal.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It makes for a delicious lunch the next day, either cold or reheated!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
