Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a dish that's not just nutritious, but absolutely mouthwatering? This Beet and Farro Salad with Mint is a culinary masterpiece that combines earthy roasted beets, nutty farro, and refreshing mint in a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for health-conscious foodies and flavor enthusiasts alike, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and exciting!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro
- 2 medium beets, roasted and diced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the farro thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Place in a medium saucepan with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt.
- Bring the farro to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the grains are tender but still have a slight chewy texture. Drain any excess water and let cool to room temperature.
- If not already roasted, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the beets, wrap individually in aluminum foil, and place on a baking sheet. Roast for 40-45 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once beets are cool enough to handle, peel the skin and dice into small, uniform cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled farro, diced roasted beets, and chopped fresh mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the farro and beet mixture, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad and fold gently to distribute.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Chill the salad for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately at room temperature.
- Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves before serving if desired.
Tips
- Roast Beets Like a Pro: For the most intense flavor, choose fresh, firm beets and roast them whole in foil. This method preserves their natural sweetness and prevents moisture loss.
- Farro Texture Matters: Don't overcook your farro! The ideal texture is tender but still slightly chewy. Drain immediately after cooking to prevent mushiness.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. Prepare it in advance for an even more delicious meal.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch, or swap feta with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Maximize Freshness: Use the freshest mint possible and chop it just before adding to the salad to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 167kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 6mg
