Imagine a dish that captures the essence of fall in every single bite - a magical combination of hearty farro, sweet roasted apples, and creamy pumpkin that will transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Roasted Apple Pumpkin Farro Salad isn't just a recipe; it's a celebration of seasonal flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking for a show-stopping side dish, this recipe promises to elevate your autumn dining with its rich textures and irresistible warmth.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Rinse the farro thoroughly under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the farro with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the farro is tender but still chewy.
- While the farro is cooking, dice the apple into small, uniform cubes. Spread the diced apple on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the diced apple with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the apple pieces are lightly caramelized and tender.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked farro, roasted apple cubes, pumpkin puree, and chopped walnuts.
- Add the dried cranberries to the mixture, and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Season the salad with additional salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Let the salad cool for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Optional: Garnish with additional chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving.
Tips
- Farro Perfection: Always rinse your farro thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess starch and ensure a perfect, chewy texture.
- Apple Roasting Hack: Cut apple pieces into uniform sizes to ensure even caramelization. Use a non-stick parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Flavor Boosting Trick: Toast the walnuts briefly in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance. The flavors will continue to meld and develop overnight.
- Customization Options: Feel free to swap dried cranberries with other dried fruits like cherries or raisins, and experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds.
- Temperature Matters: Serve the salad slightly warm or at room temperature to maximize the depth of flavors and enjoy the best texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
