Farro Greek Salad with Feta and Dill

Discover the fresh flavors of Farro Greek Salad with Feta and Dill, a vibrant dish that combines wholesome farro grains, crumbly feta cheese, and fragrant dill for a healthy, easy, and delicious meal option. Perfectly balanced with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing, this salad brings a refreshing yet satisfying experience to your table, whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a light snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and filling: Farro provides a hearty whole grain base loaded with fiber and protein, keeping you energized throughout the day.
• Vibrant flavors: The combination of salty feta and aromatic dill uplift every bite with Mediterranean-inspired taste.
• Quick and easy to prepare: You can throw this salad together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
• Versatile meal option: Great as a standalone lunch, side dish, or picnic favorite for any season.
• Perfectly balanced texture: Chewy farro grains contrast beautifully with crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and creamy feta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Farro Greek Salad with Feta and Dill lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in complementing the others, contributing to a salad that’s flavorful and colorful without overwhelming your palate.

• Farro: Provides a nutty, chewy texture that forms the hearty base of the salad.
• Cucumber: Adds crispness and a refreshing cool flavor, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• Cherry tomatoes: Bring juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
• Feta cheese: Offers a salty creaminess that’s classic in Greek cuisine.
• Fresh dill: Infuses the salad with a fragrant, slightly tangy herbal note.
• Red onion: Provides a gentle sharpness and crunch to contrast softer elements.
• Kalamata olives: Introduce a briny depth that enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the salad with zesty acidity.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Binds the ingredients together with a silky richness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the natural flavors.

Variations for Farro Greek Salad with Feta and Dill

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to experiment depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Making small tweaks can refresh the salad and keep it exciting every time you prepare it.

• Grain swap: Substitute farro with quinoa or bulgur for a gluten-free or different texture experience.
• Herb variations: Replace dill with fresh parsley or mint for a new herbal twist.
• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
• Cheese alternatives: Use crumbled goat cheese or halloumi if you prefer milder or firmer cheeses.
• Dressing upgrades: Incorporate a splash of red wine vinegar or add a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.

How to Make Farro Greek Salad with Feta and Dill

Step 1: Cook the farro

Start by rinsing the farro under cold water, then cook it in boiling salted water until tender but still chewy—usually about 20 to 25 minutes. Drain and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

While the farro is cooking, chop cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and pit the Kalamata olives. Keep the pieces bite-sized for easy eating and a nice balance of flavors in every forkful.

Step 3: Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This simple vinaigrette will brighten the salad and tie all the ingredients together.

Step 4: Combine the salad

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled farro, chopped vegetables, olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Add the chopped fresh dill and pour the dressing over everything, then gently toss to coat evenly.

Step 5: Chill and serve

For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Farro Greek Salad with Feta and Dill

• Cook farro al dente: Avoid overcooking the farro to maintain its pleasant chewiness.
• Use fresh dill: Fresh herbs make all the difference; dried dill won’t have the same vibrant flavor.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad rest enhances the melding of flavors.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
• Opt for good quality olive oil: A fruity, high-quality extra virgin olive oil elevates the entire dish.

How to Serve Farro Greek Salad with Feta and Dill

Garnishes

Top with extra fresh dill sprigs or a sprinkling of toasted pine nuts for crunch and added flavor. A few whole Kalamata olives on top also create a visually appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread, making it a versatile choice alongside many main dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual mason jars for a picnic or potluck, or use hollowed-out cucumbers or bell peppers as edible bowls for a fun and fresh presentation style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if you prefer the vegetables to stay crisp longer.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well, as the texture of the fresh vegetables and cheese will degrade upon thawing.

Reheating

If you want a warm version, reheat just the farro separately and toss with fresh vegetables and dressing after warming; avoid microwaving the whole salad to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use quick-cooking farro instead of traditional farro?

Yes, quick-cooking farro works fine and shortens your prep time, but the texture may be slightly softer than traditional farro.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

You can easily make it vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a dairy-free alternative.

How long does farro take to cook?

Typically, farro takes about 20 to 25 minutes to cook until tender; cooking times can vary depending on whether it’s pearled or whole.

What type of dill should I use?

Fresh dill is recommended for its bright flavor, but if unavailable, a small amount of dried dill can be used as a substitute.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or even roasted zucchini for extra flavor and color variety.

Final Thoughts

Farro Greek Salad with Feta and Dill is a truly delightful dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. Its fresh ingredients and simple preparation make it a must-try recipe that fits perfectly into any meal plan or occasion. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy a tasty, wholesome experience that your taste buds will thank you for!

Related Posts

• Healthy Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe
• Why Grape and Feta Pasta Salad Is a Must-Try
• Refreshing Cold Peanut Noodle Salad with Lime Ideas

Print