
Rustic Lemon Herb Farro Salad with Honey Roasted Parsnips and Arugula
Looking for a hearty, zesty dish that feels like a warm hug from the countryside? This Rustic Lemon Herb Farro Salad has it all—nutty farro, sweet honey-roasted parsnips, peppery arugula, and a bright lemony zip. It's fresh, cozy, and bursting with flavor! Let’s get cooking!
4.2 out of 5 (4 ratings)

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
Mediterranean
Ingredients
- •1 cup farro, rinsed
- •3 cups water or vegetable broth
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •3 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- •2 tablespoons olive oil
- •1 tablespoon honey
- •1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- •1 lemon, juiced and zested
- •2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- •1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- •2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- •5 ounces arugula
- •1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- •1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2
In a medium saucepan, combine the farro, water or vegetable broth, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes or until the farro is tender but still chewy. Drain excess liquid and set aside to cool slightly.
- 3
While the farro is cooking, toss the chopped parsnips with 2 tablespoons olive oil, honey, and ground black pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and caramelized. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- 4
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, fresh parsley, and thyme to create the dressing.
- 5
In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro, roasted parsnips, arugula, feta cheese (if using), and chopped toasted almonds.
- 6
Drizzle the lemon herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- 7
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories
320 calories
Protein
8g
Carbs
42g
Fat
14g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute farro with another grain?
A: Yes, you can substitute farro with other hearty grains like barley, quinoa, or brown rice. Be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid quantity as needed, since different grains absorb liquid differently and may have varying cook times.
Q: What can I use instead of honey for roasting the parsnips?
A: If you prefer not to use honey, you can replace it with maple syrup or agave syrup for a similar sweetness. Alternatively, a small sprinkle of brown sugar can also work well for caramelization.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: To make the recipe vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative. Also, ensure that the sweetener you use for the roasted parsnips, such as agave or maple syrup, is suitable for a vegan diet.
Q: What is the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the arugula and dressing separate if possible, as the greens may wilt when mixed with the dressing over time.
Q: Can I prepare this salad in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare components of this salad ahead of time. Cook the farro, roast the parsnips, and prepare the dressing up to 2 days in advance. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the arugula fresh and crisp.
Q: How can I adjust the flavors to suit my taste?
A: Feel free to customize the flavors by adding more lemon juice or zest for extra tang, increasing herbs for a more robust flavor, or using spices like smoked paprika or cumin on the parsnips for added depth. You can also add more feta or almonds for richness and crunch.
Q: What are some good variations or additions to this salad?
A: You can add roasted sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or carrots for extra vegetables. For added protein, include chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also provide a nice sweet contrast to the flavors in the salad.
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