Imagine a dish that transports you to sun-drenched Mediterranean coastlines with just one bite - a vibrant, refreshing salad that combines ancient grains, creamy white beans, and the exotic punch of preserved lemons. This Farro White Bean and Preserved Lemon Salad isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that promises to elevate your everyday meals from ordinary to extraordinary. Perfect for health-conscious food lovers and adventurous home cooks, this recipe delivers incredible flavor, nutrition, and a touch of gourmet elegance that will make your taste buds dance!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 preserved lemon, rind only, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the farro thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris. Place the farro in a medium saucepan with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt.
- Bring the farro to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the farro is tender but still has a slight bite. The grains should be plump and slightly split.
- While the farro is cooking, drain and rinse the white beans thoroughly. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Carefully remove the preserved lemon rind, discarding the pulp. Finely chop the rind into small, delicate pieces.
- Once the farro is cooked, drain any excess water and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. The grains should be slightly warm but not hot.
- Add the warm farro to the bowl with the white beans. Gently fold in the chopped preserved lemon rind.
- Pour the olive oil over the mixture, and add the freshly chopped parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring the farro, beans, and herbs are evenly distributed.
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve at room temperature as a light main dish or side salad.
Tips
- Farro Perfection: Always rinse farro thoroughly and use the right water-to-grain ratio to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
- Preserved Lemon Hack: Remove the pulp and use only the rind for a concentrated, bright citrus flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- Temperature Matters: Let the farro cool slightly before mixing to help it absorb the olive oil and herb flavors more effectively.
- Flavor Enhancement: Allow the salad to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the ingredients mingle and develop a more complex taste profile.
- Customization Options: Feel free to add crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor complexity.
- Storage Tip: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep and quick lunches.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 266kcal
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
