Looking for a vibrant, nutritious dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? The Farro Roasted Vegetable Grain Bowl is your answer! Packed with hearty farro and a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavor. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Dive into this article to discover how to create a wholesome bowl that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Rinse the farro thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the farro with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the farro is tender but still has a slight chewy texture.
- While the farro is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the zucchini and bell pepper into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even roasting. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even caramelization and roasting.
- Once the farro is cooked, drain any excess liquid if necessary. Transfer the cooked farro to a large serving bowl.
- Add the roasted vegetables to the farro and gently toss to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves torn or chopped just before serving to add a bright, aromatic finish to the dish.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. The grain bowl can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent meal prep option.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Farro: To achieve that ideal chewy texture, keep an eye on the farro while it cooks. Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark, as cooking times can vary slightly based on the brand.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even Brussels sprouts can add a delightful twist to the dish. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even roasting.
- Roasting Technique: For the best caramelization, make sure your vegetables are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which won't give you that delicious golden-brown finish.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to the vegetable mix before roasting. This will infuse the vegetables with an aromatic touch.
- Meal Prep Magic: This grain bowl stores beautifully! Make a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have healthy lunches ready for the week. Just store the farro and vegetables separately to maintain freshness.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your grain bowl with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
