I love making this spring farro salad when I want something fresh, wholesome, and full of seasonal flavors. The nutty farro pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables and a light dressing, creating a dish that feels both nourishing and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy how this salad is hearty enough to be a main dish while still feeling light and refreshing. The combination of textures—from chewy farro to crunchy vegetables—makes every bite interesting. I also like how well it works for meal prep and stays delicious even after a day or two.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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farro
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water or vegetable broth
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salt
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asparagus, chopped
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peas (fresh or frozen)
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cucumber, diced
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radishes, sliced
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green onions, chopped
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fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or dill)
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feta cheese, crumbled
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olive oil
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lemon juice
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lemon zest
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Dijon mustard
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honey
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black pepper
Directions
I start by cooking the farro in salted water or vegetable broth according to the package instructions until tender but still chewy. I drain any excess liquid and let it cool.
While the farro cooks, I prepare the vegetables by chopping the asparagus, slicing the radishes, and dicing the cucumber. If I’m using fresh peas, I blanch them briefly until tender.
In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper to create a bright dressing.
In a large bowl, I combine the cooked farro with the vegetables and fresh herbs. I pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
I finish by adding crumbled feta cheese and give it a gentle mix before serving.
Servings and timing
I usually make about 4–6 servings. Preparation takes around 15–20 minutes, and cooking the farro takes about 20–25 minutes, so the total time is approximately 40–45 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. When I want more sweetness, I include dried cranberries or chopped apples. I also like swapping feta with goat cheese or leaving it out for a dairy-free version.
Storage/reheating
I store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I often enjoy it cold, but I sometimes let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use another grain instead of farro?
I often use quinoa, bulgur, or couscous if I don’t have farro.
Do I need to soak farro before cooking?
I usually don’t soak it, but soaking can reduce cooking time slightly.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
I like making it in advance because the flavors develop even more over time.
What herbs work best?
I use parsley, mint, or dill depending on what I have available.
Is this salad served warm or cold?
I enjoy it both ways, but I usually serve it slightly cooled or at room temperature.
Conclusion
I find this spring farro salad to be a perfect balance of fresh, bright, and hearty elements. It’s a versatile dish that fits into many meals and always feels satisfying while still being light and refreshing.
Spring Farro Salad Recipe
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A fresh and wholesome spring farro salad featuring nutty farro, crisp seasonal vegetables, herbs, and a bright lemon dressing, perfect as a light yet satisfying meal.
- Author: Mayaa
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup radishes, sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or dill), chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the farro in salted water or vegetable broth according to package instructions until tender but chewy (about 20–25 minutes). Drain excess liquid and let cool.
- While the farro cooks, chop the asparagus, slice the radishes, and dice the cucumber.
- If using fresh peas, blanch them briefly in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled farro, asparagus, peas, cucumber, radishes, green onions, and fresh herbs.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Add crumbled feta cheese and gently mix.
- Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Substitute farro with quinoa, bulgur, or couscous if needed.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Include dried cranberries or chopped apples for a touch of sweetness.
- Swap feta with goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.
- Soaking farro beforehand can reduce cooking time.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Let sit at room temperature briefly before serving for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
