Vegetarian Farro Recipes for Healthy and Delicious Meals

Farro, an ancient grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture, is quickly becoming a favorite among vegetarians and food enthusiasts alike. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for hearty salads, warm bowls, and comforting side dishes.

Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, farro is not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing. Whether you’re looking to add more whole grains to your diet or searching for satisfying meatless meal ideas, vegetarian farro recipes offer a perfect balance of taste and health.

In a permanent spot on your menu!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Farro is a nutritional powerhouse that offers more protein and fiber than many other grains, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians looking to build balanced meals. Its hearty texture holds up well in salads and warm dishes, providing a satisfying bite that complements fresh vegetables and robust seasonings.

These vegetarian farro recipes are designed to be versatile and approachable, using simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking a quick dinner, farro’s quick-cooking varieties save time without sacrificing flavor.

Plus, farro pairs beautifully with a wide range of vegetables, herbs, and dressings, so you can customize each dish to suit your mood and pantry.

Not only are these recipes delicious and filling, but they also promote healthy eating habits by incorporating whole grains and plant-based ingredients. If you love exploring new vegetarian dishes, be sure to check out our Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals and Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners for more inspiration!

Ingredients

• 1 cup pearl farro, rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional for vegetarians, omit for vegans)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Colander or fine mesh sieve
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Salad serving bowls or plates

Instructions

1. Cook the farro: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Add the rinsed farro and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the grains are tender but still chewy. Drain any excess liquid using a colander and set the farro aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the farro is cooking, dice the red bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the spinach, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Combine the salad: Add the cooked farro to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Add finishing touches: Fold in the chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if using. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor.
6. Serve: Transfer the farro salad to serving bowls or plates. Enjoy warm, at room temperature, or chilled for a refreshing meal.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To reduce cooking time, use quick-cooking farro or soak pearl farro in water for a few hours before cooking.

Variation: Swap out vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference. Roasted squash, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli make excellent additions.

Make it vegan: Skip the feta cheese and add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds for richness and texture.

For a Mediterranean twist, try adding kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of za’atar spice. If you enjoy creamy textures, drizzle with our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian farro salad is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals. Serve it as a hearty lunch on its own or as a side dish alongside grilled vegetables or vegetarian patties.

It also works well as a base for a Buddha bowl topped with roasted chickpeas and avocado.

For a light dinner, pair it with a warm bowl of soup such as our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating. Alternatively, add a dollop of creamy hummus or your favorite bean dip to make it more indulgent.

More Vegetarian Farro Recipes to Try

Autumn Harvest Farro Salad

Combine roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and a maple-Dijon dressing with cooked farro for a sweet and savory fall-inspired salad. This recipe is perfect for cozy evenings and meal prepping.

Mediterranean Farro Bowl with Chickpeas

Mix cooked farro with chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and a lemon-tahini dressing. Top with fresh herbs like mint and parsley for a refreshing, protein-packed bowl.

Farro and Roasted Vegetable Grain Bowl

Roast a medley of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, then toss with farro and a garlic-herb vinaigrette. Garnish with crumbled goat cheese or a vegan alternative.

Each of these recipes highlights the versatility of farro and the vibrant flavors of vegetarian cuisine. For more creative vegetarian ideas, don’t miss our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Conclusion

Vegetarian farro recipes are a delicious way to incorporate nutrient-dense whole grains into your diet while enjoying fresh, vibrant vegetables. Their hearty texture and rich, nutty flavor make farro a satisfying base for salads, bowls, and side dishes alike.

These recipes are easy to customize, quick to prepare, and perfect for meal prep or quick dinners.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to explore more plant-based meals, farro offers endless culinary possibilities. By experimenting with different vegetables, herbs, and dressings, you can create wholesome dishes that nourish your body and delight your taste buds.

For more vegetarian inspiration, browse our collection of recipes like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to complement your wholesome meals.

Happy cooking and enjoy your journey with vegetarian farro!

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