Description
A fresh and hearty spring salad featuring nutty farro grains combined with crisp asparagus, sweet peas, peppery radishes, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a bright and zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or a nutritious side dish that celebrates seasonal produce.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 cup farro
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 1 cup peas
- ½ cup radishes, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Farro: Rinse the farro under cold water. Place it in a pot with 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until tender but still chewy. Drain any excess water and set farro aside to cool.
- Blanch the Vegetables: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the chopped asparagus and peas. Blanch for 2 minutes until crisp-tender, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. Drain and pat dry.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled farro, blanched asparagus and peas, sliced radishes, chopped parsley, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until emulsified and smooth.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the farro and vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients in the flavorful vinaigrette.
- Serve: Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes or serve immediately at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- The salad can be made a day ahead and refrigerated for easier meal prep.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese for a different layer of flavor.
- This salad pairs excellently as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean