Pearl Farro Salad with Squash

I have countless cherished memories centered around farro bowls, a comforting staple in our family meals. My mom was a master at cooking Farro perfectly; her special farro soup, a blend of farro wheat, lamb, onion, and cinnamon, was always soul-warming and satisfying. Another childhood favorite was boiled Farro, simply yet deliciously enhanced with a sprinkle of sugar and cinnamon.

As I delve into Farro’s health benefits, it’s clear why these dishes always left us feeling nourished yet light. Farro is a whole grain loaded with fiber and protein, and my rendition of pearl farro with butternut squash captures these advantages perfectly. This versatile dish can quickly become vegetarian or vegan-friendly with simple adjustments. So, if you’re exploring hearty yet healthful options for the colder seasons, why not incorporate my Farro salad with butternut squash recipe into your fall or winter meal lineup? It’s a cozy dish that pays homage to Farro’s rich health benefits and showcases the grain’s unique taste and texture.

What is Farro?

Often described as an ancient grain, Farro boasts a unique, nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it a star ingredient in various dishes. From soups and salads to farro bowls and even risottos, cooked Farro adds a depth of flavor and richness that’s hard to match. But it’s not just the taste that makes it special; Farro’s health benefits are equally noteworthy.

As a variant of wheat, Farro stands out in terms of nutrition. It’s rich in fiber and protein, making it a wholesome choice for health-conscious eaters. One cup of dry farro yields about three cups when cooked, providing plenty of volume for different dishes. This makes Farro a versatile alternative to more mainstream grains like white rice or pasta.

Wondering about Farro substitutes? While grains like quinoa or barley can be swapped in, they simply can’t replicate farro wheat’s unique taste and texture. It’s a grain that’s stood the test of time, remaining a favorite in traditional and contemporary cuisines.

Best Onions for Your Farro salad?

When cooking this farro salad recipe, the choice of onion can subtly enhance the overall flavor profile. For this dish, I have a personal inclination towards pearl onions. These miniature, white bulbs offer a more nuanced and milder flavor than their regular-sized counterparts. They perfectly complement the nutty chewiness of cooked Farro. If you’re navigating the aisles of your local grocery store, you’ll typically find these little gems nestled in the produce section. When it comes to preparation, simplicity is vital. If you’re working with smaller pearl onions, feel free to cook them whole. However, a simple halving will do the trick for slightly larger ones, ensuring even cooking and a burst of subtle sweetness in every bite of your bowl.

How to Prepare Butternut Squash?

Butternut squash, a vibrant and flavorful addition to any farro salad, is relatively easy to prep. Choose a heavier squash, indicating a juicy and delicious interior. Start using a sharp knife to trim the top and bottom, creating a stable base. Position the squash upright and peel its skin using a vegetable peeler, moving from top to bottom. Once peeled, slice it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. If you’re in a hurry or prefer convenience, many grocery stores offer pre-cut butternut squash as a handy alternative for your recipe.

Spices for Your Farro Salad

The magic of a memorable farro bowl often lies in the spices. For this butternut squash and farro salad recipe, I gravitate towards warm spices that elevate the dish’s flavors. Cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cardamom are my top picks. Their aromatic blend imparts a harmonious spicy-sweet undertone, complementing the inherent sweetness of butternut squash. While many opt for stock, water accentuates these spices without overshadowing their nuanced flavors. Olive oil is my primary cooking medium, but butter or ghee are decadent alternatives that add depth and richness if you want to experiment.

What Are Barberries?

Barberries, from the Berberis vulgaris plant, are small, sour Persian berries. They resemble sour, unsweetened dried cranberries and are essential in many Persian dishes. Dried cranberries or golden raisins make great alternatives for your farro bowl if you can’t find barberries.