Ina Garten Farro Salad Recipe

Looking for a salad that’s wholesome, satisfying, and full of texture? Ina Garten’s Farro Salad brings together nutty farro, crunchy vegetables, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon vinaigrette. It’s the kind of dish that can stand alone as a light meal or complement almost any main course. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this salad is a favorite from Ina’s kitchen—beautifully rustic, easy to prepare, and endlessly versatile.

What is Ina Garten’s Farro Salad?

Ina Garten’s Farro Salad is a Mediterranean-inspired grain salad made with cooked farro (a chewy, nutty whole grain), fresh vegetables, herbs, and a lemony vinaigrette. Often served at room temperature, it’s refreshing yet hearty. The farro soaks up the vinaigrette, while crunchy vegetables like bell peppers and red onion add contrast. Fresh herbs and feta round out the flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for both casual lunches and elegant dinners.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad
• Ina Garten’s Garlic Bread
• Ina Garten Confetti Corn
• Ina Garten Hard-Boiled Eggs

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Farro Salad

• Full of texture and flavor – Nutty farro, crisp vegetables, and tangy vinaigrette in every bite.
• Healthy and filling – A great source of fiber and protein.
• Perfect for make-ahead meals – Tastes even better after sitting.
• Versatile side or main – Serve it solo or alongside meat or fish.
• Great at any temperature – Enjoy warm, cold, or room temp.
• Vibrant and colorful – Beautiful presentation for guests.
• Easy to customize – Add your favorite vegetables, cheese, or herbs.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Farro Salad

• 1 cup pearled farro
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• ½ small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the lemon vinaigrette:

• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Farro Salad

Cook the farro

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add farro and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until tender but still chewy. Drain and let cool slightly.

Prepare the vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until emulsified.

Combine the ingredients

In a large bowl, add the cooled farro, diced peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and mint if using.

Add dressing and toss

Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Finish with feta

Sprinkle crumbled feta on top and give it a final toss. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon if needed.

Serve or chill

Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate for an hour to chill before serving.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Farro Salad

• Serve with grilled chicken or lamb – A hearty base for protein-rich mains.
• Pair with salmon or shrimp – Adds freshness and balances richness.
• Enjoy with hummus and pita – Creates a Mediterranean-style plate.
• Add to a picnic spread – Travels well and tastes great cold.
• Serve with a soft-boiled egg – Turns it into a light, complete meal.
• Include with a cheese board – Works wonderfully with olives and hard cheeses.
• Top with roasted vegetables – Adds warmth and earthiness.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Farro Salad

• Rinse the farro before cooking – Removes excess starch and keeps it fluffy.
• Salt the water well – Like pasta, farro needs seasoning from the start.
• Let the farro cool slightly – Prevents wilting herbs or melting cheese.
• Chop vegetables evenly – For consistent texture in every bite.
• Use fresh lemon juice – Brightens and balances the earthy grains.
• Toss with dressing while warm – Helps the farro absorb more flavor.
• Don’t skip the herbs – They bring the salad to life with freshness.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Farro Salad

• Add chickpeas or white beans – Boosts protein and fiber.
• Use roasted zucchini or eggplant – Adds warmth and depth.
• Swap feta for goat cheese or shaved parmesan – Adjusts the flavor profile.
• Mix in arugula or spinach – For a more leafy salad texture.
• Include Kalamata olives or capers – For a briny, salty pop.
• Try a honey-mustard vinaigrette – Adds a sweet-savory balance.
• Add dried cranberries or raisins – A hint of sweetness pairs well with feta.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Farro Salad

• Store in an airtight container – Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Let it come to room temp before serving – Flavors are better when not ice-cold.
• Add extra herbs before serving leftovers – Freshen it up with a handful of parsley or mint.
• Toss again before serving – Redistributes dressing and brightens flavor.
• Don’t freeze – The texture of the grains and veggies doesn’t hold up well after thawing.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Farro Salad

• Best served chilled or room temp – No need to reheat.
• Warm briefly if desired – Gently heat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil.
• Avoid microwaving with feta – The cheese can become rubbery or melt unevenly.
• Add lemon or oil after warming – Refreshes the salad and adds shine.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Cholesterol: 10mg

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten Farro Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish. In fact, letting the salad rest for a few hours or overnight allows the farro to absorb the vinaigrette and deepens the flavor. Just give it a good stir and refresh with extra herbs or a splash of lemon juice before serving.

What kind of farro should I use for this salad?

Pearled farro is ideal because it cooks faster (about 20–25 minutes) and still maintains a pleasant chew. You can also use semi-pearled farro, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is Ina Garten’s Farro Salad served warm or cold?

It can be served either way. Most often, it’s served at room temperature or slightly chilled, making it perfect for outdoor events or meal prep. Just avoid serving it straight from the fridge—let it sit out for 10–15 minutes first.

Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely. To make this farro salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based feta alternative. All other ingredients are naturally vegan.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Farro Salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. With its medley of crunchy veggies, chewy farro, and bright vinaigrette, it’s a well-balanced, flavorful option for any meal.

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