Name: Winter Farro & Kale Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 4 cups fresh kale leaves (stems removed); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); ½ English cucumber (diced); ¼ red onion (thinly sliced); ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled); ⅓ cup pine nuts (toasted); 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Winter is here, and with it comes the craving for something hearty yet refreshing. Picture this: a bowl filled with nutty farro, vibrant kale, and a medley of colorful veggies that dance together in perfect harmony. This Winter Farro & Kale Salad isn’t just any salad; it’s like a warm hug on a cold day, bursting with flavors that will make your taste buds sing!

Now, before you roll your eyes at the idea of another “healthy” dish, let me tell you—this salad is anything but boring. Imagine crunching on perfectly roasted nuts while savoring the earthy goodness of kale and farro dressed in a zesty vinaigrette. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a festive side at holiday gatherings, this salad promises to elevate any meal. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why You'll Love This Winter Farro & Kale Salad

This incredible Winter Farro & Kale Salad transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Winter Farro & Kale Salad:

Farro: This ancient grain adds a chewy texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the kale.
Kale: Fresh kale is packed with nutrients and provides a vibrant green color; use Lacinato or curly kale for best results.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and juiciness to balance the earthy flavors.
Cucumber: Crunchy cucumber adds freshness; opt for English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite; soak them in water if you prefer a milder taste.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides creaminess and saltiness; feel free to substitute with goat cheese or leave it out for vegan options.
Pine Nuts: Lightly toasted pine nuts add crunch; you can swap them out for walnuts or almonds if needed.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for dressing to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar brightens up the salad; consider using flavored varieties for extra zing.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Winter Farro & Kale Salad:

Step 1: Cook the Farro

Rinse about one cup of farro under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed farro with three cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes until tender but still chewy.

Step 2: Prepare the Kale

While the farro cooks, take four cups of fresh kale leaves and remove the stems. Chop them into bite-sized pieces before placing them in a large mixing bowl. To soften them slightly (and avoid chewing like you’re munching on tree bark), massage the kale gently with your hands for about two minutes until it wilts.

Step 3: Chop Your Veggies

Grab those cherry tomatoes and cucumber! Halve the tomatoes and chop half of an English cucumber into small pieces. Add these beauties into your bowl with kale along with thinly sliced red onion.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together three tablespoons of olive oil and two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste! If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some minced garlic or Dijon mustard.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your farro is cooked (and cooled slightly so you don’t scald yourself), add it to your mixing bowl along with crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts. Drizzle on that glorious dressing we whipped up earlier.

Step 6: Toss It All Together

Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well-coated in dressing. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional balsamic vinegar if desired for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—the ultimate Winter Farro & Kale Salad that not only looks appealing but tastes divine! Enjoy it as a main course or alongside your favorite protein!

You Must Know About Winter Farro & Kale Salad

This showstopping Winter Farro & Kale Salad delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by cooking the farro in boiling salted water until tender. While it cooks, wash and chop the kale, then prepare your dressing. Combine everything in a large bowl once the farro is ready for a fresh and delightful salad experience.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to switch up the grains—quinoa works well too! Add roasted vegetables or nuts for crunch, or toss in some feta cheese for a tangy twist. Customize this Winter Farro & Kale Salad to fit your taste buds!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For optimal freshness, avoid adding dressing until ready to serve. Reheat gently if desired, but enjoy cold for a refreshing bite.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Winter Farro & Kale Salad

This professional-quality Winter Farro & Kale Salad relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

When I first served this Winter Farro & Kale Salad at my dinner party, my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was! One even asked if I had put a spell on it; I just smiled and said it was all in the technique!

FAQs

What is Winter Farro & Kale Salad?

Winter Farro & Kale Salad is a hearty and nutritious dish, perfect for colder months. This salad combines farro, a chewy whole grain, with tender kale leaves, offering a delightful texture and flavor. You can enhance it with seasonal vegetables, nuts, and a tangy dressing. This dish not only serves as a standalone meal but also makes an excellent side for any winter gathering.

How do you make Winter Farro & Kale Salad?

To make Winter Farro & Kale Salad, start by cooking farro according to package instructions. While the farro cooks, massage fresh kale with olive oil to soften it. Combine the cooked farro with kale in a large bowl, and add your choice of roasted vegetables, nuts, and a simple vinaigrette. Toss everything together until well mixed. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Can I customize my Winter Farro & Kale Salad?

Absolutely! One of the great things about Winter Farro & Kale Salad is its versatility. You can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to add ingredients like roasted sweet potatoes, cranberries, or feta cheese for added flavor. Experimenting with different toppings ensures that your salad remains exciting and satisfying.

Is Winter Farro & Kale Salad healthy?

Yes, Winter Farro & Kale Salad is quite healthy! It contains nutrient-dense ingredients like kale and farro, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This salad can help support digestion while providing sustained energy throughout the day. Additionally, by incorporating various vegetables and healthy fats from nuts or seeds, you can create a balanced meal that promotes overall wellness.

Conclusion

In summary, the Winter Farro & Kale Salad is an ideal dish for those seeking warmth and nutrition during chilly months. Its combination of wholesome ingredients makes it both satisfying and healthy. With easy customization options available, this salad can cater to personal tastes while remaining deliciously robust. Enjoy exploring the flavors of this vibrant dish as part of your winter meals!