Winter Farro & Kale Salad

If you’re looking for a cozy, nutritious dish that warms you from the inside out, then you’ll love this Winter Farro & Kale Salad. This salad is not just food; it’s a celebration of winter’s hearty flavors! With tender farro, vibrant kale, and sweet pomegranate seeds, each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Whether you’re preparing lunch for busy weekdays or need a side dish for family gatherings, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. It can be served as a main dish or a side, and it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone in your family will enjoy. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up ahead of time—just make it on Sunday and have delicious lunches ready to go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This salad comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and filling: With fiber-rich farro and protein-packed chickpeas, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• Great for meal prep: Make it in advance and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just keep the dressing separate!
• Flavorful and vibrant: The combination of roasted veggies, fresh greens, and zesty dressing makes every bite a burst of flavor.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love this colorful salad filled with delicious ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering wholesome ingredients is one of the joys of cooking! For this Winter Farro & Kale Salad, you’ll need simple items that bring both flavor and nutrition to your table. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

• 1 cup dry farro
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into 1 inch florets
• 1 small red onion, roughly chopped
• 1/2 tbsp avocado oil (or any neutral high heat oil)
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dry basil
• 1/2 tsp dry thyme
• 2-3 cups kale, destemmed and roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup pepitas
• 1 (15 oz) can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

• 1 large clove garlic, crushed
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tsp maple syrup
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
• 1 tsp dry oregano

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Add more veggies: Toss in your favorite seasonal vegetables like roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts for added flavor.
• Change up the greens: If kale isn’t your thing, try using spinach or arugula instead—they’ll lend their own unique taste!
• Boost the protein: Add grilled chicken or diced tofu for an extra protein punch if desired.
• Switch up the nuts/seeds: Use sunflower seeds or walnuts instead of pepitas for different textures.

How to Make Winter Farro & Kale Salad

Step 1: Cook the Farro

Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a rapid boil. Add your farro and let it cook for 15-17 minutes until al dente. Taste a grain just to check if it’s cooked to your liking! Once done, drain the farro through a sieve and spread it out on a parchment-lined baking tray to cool.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place broccoli florets and chopped onion on another lined baking tray. Drizzle with avocado oil and sprinkle over cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, basil, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything well so it’s nicely coated. Roast in the oven for about 15 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

While the vegetables are baking away in the oven, let’s whip up that delicious dressing! In a small bowl or jar, combine crushed garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice and zest, maple syrup, red pepper flakes (if using), and oregano. Mix well until everything is nicely blended.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Now it’s time to bring everything together! In a large mixing bowl, add your kale along with 1-2 teaspoons of dressing. Massage it gently with your hands until it softens beautifully. Then top with those roasted veggies you’ve prepared earlier along with pomegranate seeds, pepitas, chickpeas, and more dressing if needed. Give everything a good toss so all those flavors mingle together beautifully before serving!

And that’s all there is to it! Enjoy every bite of this vibrant Winter Farro & Kale Salad—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Winter Farro & Kale Salad

Creating a delicious Winter Farro & Kale Salad can be a breeze with a few handy tips. Here are some pointers to elevate your salad experience!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh kale and vibrant broccoli will enhance the flavors and textures of your salad, making every bite a delightful experience.
• Experiment with Grains: While farro is the star here, feel free to swap it out with quinoa or barley for a different taste and texture that keeps things interesting.
• Customize Your Dressing: Adjust the garlic and lemon to suit your palate. If you enjoy more tang, add an extra splash of lemon juice!
• Make Ahead for Meal Prep: Prepare your farro and roasted veggies in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
• Add Protein Variations: For an extra protein kick, toss in some roasted nuts or seeds beyond pepitas or even add cooked lentils if you’re looking for a heartier option.

How to Serve Winter Farro & Kale Salad

This Winter Farro & Kale Salad not only tastes incredible but also presents beautifully. Here are some ideas for making it shine at your dinner table!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top adds a burst of freshness and color.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over their salads just before diving in.
• Extra Pomegranate Seeds: A handful of additional pomegranate seeds can provide an eye-catching pop of color and burst of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness and creamy texture make roasted sweet potatoes a perfect complement to the hearty salad.
• Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with quinoa, vegetables, and spices offer a satisfying side that pairs well with the salad’s flavors.
• Crispy Chickpea Snacks: Seasoned chickpeas baked until crispy can serve as a crunchy side that echoes the chickpeas in the salad while adding a fun texture contrast.
• Herb Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs makes for a light, flavorful accompaniment that balances the robust elements of the salad.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Winter Farro & Kale Salad is sure to be a hit! Enjoy every bite as you embrace the comforting flavors of winter.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Winter Farro and Kale Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• If you anticipate leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

Freezing

• While it’s not ideal to freeze this salad due to the texture of kale, you can freeze the cooked farro and roasted vegetables separately.
• Place them in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen your farro and vegetables, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Gently reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed.
• For best results, enjoy the salad cold with fresh kale and dressing added just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a Winter Farro & Kale Salad.

Can I use other grains instead of farro?

Absolutely! Quinoa or barley would work nicely as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make a Winter Farro & Kale Salad vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure that any additional ingredients you choose are plant-based.

What can I substitute for pomegranate seeds in the Winter Farro & Kale Salad?

If you can’t find pomegranate seeds, try using dried cranberries or diced apples for a similar burst of sweetness.

How long does the dressing last for my Winter Farro & Kale Salad?

The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using!

Is this Winter Farro & Kale Salad gluten-free?

Farro contains gluten, so if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute with quinoa or another gluten-free grain.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this hearty Winter Farro and Kale Salad! It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your winter meals. Whether you’re prepping for lunches or looking for a wholesome dinner option, this recipe is sure to brighten your day. Happy cooking!