Farro Salad Bowl Fennel Oranges Almonds

Bring a burst of Mediterranean freshness to your table with this Farro Salad Bowl. Combining the earthy, chewy texture of farro with the crisp bite of thinly sliced fennel and the sweetness of juicy orange segments, this dish is both vibrant and deeply satisfying. A zesty homemade vinaigrette ties all the elements together for a meal that feels like a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients.

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The secret to this salad lies in the contrast of textures. The nutty crunch of toasted almonds perfectly complements the tender grains, while the aromatic hint of fennel adds a sophisticated layer of flavor. It is a versatile recipe that works beautifully as a nutritious lunch or a standout side dish for dinner parties.

Ingredients

• Grains
  • 1 cup (180 g) farro
  • 3 cups (720 ml) water
  • ½ teaspoon salt
• Vegetables & Fruit
  • 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced (reserve fronds for garnish)
  • 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups (60 g) mixed salad greens
• Nuts & Seeds
  • ½ cup (50 g) sliced almonds, toasted
• Vinaigrette
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon honey
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Rinse the farro under cold water. Combine farro, water, and ½ teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes until tender but chewy. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2

While the farro cooks, toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 4

In a large salad bowl, toss the cooled farro with fennel, orange segments, red onion, and salad greens. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Step 5

Sprinkle toasted almonds and reserved fennel fronds on top. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, keep an eye on the farro during the last few minutes of cooking—it should be tender but still offer a slight resistance when bitten. Toasting the almonds is a small step that makes a huge difference, adding a deep, smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish. Always rinse the farro beforehand to remove any dust or excess starch.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra protein, you can easily add grilled chicken or a can of rinsed chickpeas. If you want a more striking appearance, blood oranges add a beautiful color twist. Additionally, if you cannot find farro, you can substitute it with other ancient grains like spelt or barley for a similar chewy consistency.

Serviervorschläge

This salad is best served immediately to maintain the crispness of the greens and fennel. It pairs exceptionally well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the citrus notes of the dressing. For a complete Mediterranean feast, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or fresh pita bread.

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Whether you are looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a bright addition to your next brunch, this Farro Salad Bowl delivers on both flavor and nutrition. The combination of seasonal citrus and hearty grains makes it a timeless choice for any occasion.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this grain bowl keeps well for 3-4 days when refrigerated. Store the vinaigrette separately and toss just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of vegetables and nuts.

→ What can I substitute for farro?

Spelt, barley, or wheat berries work beautifully as alternatives. Adjust cooking time accordingly—these grains may need 10-15 minutes longer to become tender.

→ Is farro gluten-free?

No, farro contains gluten as it's a wheat variety. For a gluten-free option, try quinoa, brown rice, or sorghum instead.

→ How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?

Let the cooked farro cool completely before mixing with other ingredients. Pat orange segments dry with paper towels and add almonds just before serving.

→ Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled feta cheese pair wonderfully. For vegan protein, try cubes of baked tofu or a dollop of hummus on top.

→ What's the best way to slice fennel?

Trim the fronds and stalks, cut the bulb in half lengthwise, and remove the tough core. Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create thin, even slices for the best texture.