This Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Farro is a flavorful side or main dish salad! Toothsome and nutty farro is tossed with tender roasted vegetables and a sweet and tart balsamic dressing.
Prep Once, Meals For Days
My go-to-at-home lunch always consists of a grain salad. I prep it over the weekend, typically while I’m preparing Sunday night supper. I’ll roast up some extra vegetables, make more grains than I need for the meal, and presto! Lunch for the week is made.
There are so many different ways to make this simple lunch, but this has to be my favorite: a hearty and chewy grain like farro, perfectly roasted veggies, and a tangy vinaigrette. Read on to learn more about this delicious Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Farro!
What Is Farro?
The first question to answer is, “What is farro, anyway?”
Farro is a grain known for its nutty flavor and hearty texture. It’s considered an ancient grain and has been found in the tombs of Egyptian Kings. It’s now readily available in the aisles of most grocery stores, and can easily be found online.
How To Make Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Farro
Farro, like most grains, requires a simple equation of grain to water to cook it properly. Learn more about a variety of grains (how to cook AND serve them) by reading my Guide to Pasta and Grains article!
Next up is the roasted vegetables. They’re one of my favorite things to have on hand in general, but they are particularly delicious when tossed with tasty farro and a tangy balsamic vinegarette! Making roasted vegetables couldn’t be simpler. Follow the simple steps for fail-proof deliciously roasted vegetables every single time!
- Get your oven nice and hot. We’re talking 400° or above!
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. I like doing this for easy cleanup, but feel free to put your vegetables directly on your sheet pan!
- Prep your vegetables. Peel, remove leaves and chop vegetables into bite-size pieces.
- Add the flavor. Refer to my article for Fats and Spices. My typical go to for roasted vegetables is simply olive oil, salt, pepper, fresh garlic, and perhaps some dried oregano. Feel free to swap in your favorite spices and seasonings!
- Cook until golden brown. Some vegetables will need a little bit longer than others, but use your nose and eyes as indicators: when they smell delicious and look crisp tender, they’re perfect!
How To Make Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Farro Your Own!
I’ve said it before: the beauty of a recipe like this is that you truly can make it your own! Swap out your favorite grain, toss in your favorite vegetables (or whatever you have on hand), and call it your own! Truly, there’s no right or wrong way of making this fail-proof dish!
How To Serve Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Farro
As previously mentioned, a grain salad like this is my favorite for lunch. A few delicious options to consider for additions to make it a well-rounded meal!
- Some protein. I like keeping grilled or roasted chicken on hand at all times, which makes the perfect accompaniment for a dish like this. Feel free to add your favorite! Any bean or legume would also be a light and nutritious option.
- Fruit. When enjoying a wholesome lunch like this, I rarely reach for something super-indulgent if I have a sweet tooth afterward. That said, fresh apples sprinkled with cinnamon, or whatever fruit is in season seems to curb my craving!
- A delicious beverage. At some point in my life, I will live in Italy and enjoy wine for my midday meal, but in the meantime, I’ll reach for flavored sparkling water with a wedge of citrus to feel fancy.
Tried this recipe and loved it? Use the hashtag #sohappyyoulikedit and tag @sohappyyoulikedit on social media so I can see your creations!
Let’s be friends! Find me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Don’t forget to check out my YouTube Channel!
Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Farro
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 cup brussels sprouts, sliced
- 1 cup zucchini, cubed
- 1 shallot, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and cubed
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook farro according to package instructions.
- Meanwhile, prepare the roasted vegetables. Preheat oven to 400º. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper and add vegetables. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes until tender.
- To make the balsamic dressing, mix the balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake to combine.
- Add cooked farro to a large bowl, followed by the roasted vegetables. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to combine.