The sun is shining, the breeze is gentle, and your taste buds are ready for something fresh. Enter the Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad, a dish that sings with vibrant greens and nutty farro while dancing on your palate. Picture this: crisp green beans that snap like a well-timed punchline and chewy farro that feels just right in your mouth, creating a flavor experience that you’ll be daydreaming about long after your picnic blanket is folded away.
I can still hear the laughter from that summer picnic when my friends devoured every last bite of this salad. It was the perfect companion to our lazy afternoon, and I’m convinced it turned mediocre sandwiches into gourmet experiences. So grab your basket, head to the park, or whip it up for a cozy night in; either way, you’re in for a treat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
- Its unique blend of flavors creates a delightful experience with every forkful
- The bright colors make it visually appealing, ensuring it stands out at any gathering
- Packed with nutrients, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or main course!
There’s nothing quite like hearing “Wow!” from friends as they take their first bites. This salad has been a crowd-pleaser at every potluck I’ve attended.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a delightful crunch; choose firm ones for the best texture.
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Farro: This ancient grain offers chewy goodness; opt for semi-pearled farro for quicker cooking.
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Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes brighten up the dish; use a mix of colors for visual appeal.
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Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion gives a zesty kick; soak in water briefly to mellow its flavor.
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Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brings brightness; roll the lemon on the counter before juicing for maximum yield.
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Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil enhances flavor; extra virgin is ideal for dressing this salad.
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Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess; use full-fat for richer taste or reduce fat if preferred.
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Fresh Herbs (Basil or Parsley): Fresh herbs elevate this salad; chop finely to release their aromatic oils.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Farro: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of farro with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer until tender, about 25 minutes. Drain excess water once cooked.
Prepare the Green Beans: While the farro cooks, bring a small pot of salted water to boil. Add trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3 minutes until vibrant green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of olive oil, juice from one lemon, salt, and pepper to taste until well combined. This dressing adds zing to your salad.
Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked farro, blanched green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh herbs. Drizzle dressing over everything generously.
Serve & Enjoy!: Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated with dressing. Taste-test for seasoning adjustments—add more salt or lemon juice as needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal enjoyment.
This Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad not only looks gorgeous but also tastes fantastic! Your friends will think you are some kind of culinary wizard by the time they finish their servings. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad is not just tasty; it’s perfect for sunny days
- Bright colors and fresh flavors make this dish a showstopper at any picnic
- Plus, the crunchy texture complements the chewy farro beautifully, creating an unforgettable experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the farro first; while it simmers, blanch the green beans for that perfect crunch. Toss them together once both are ready to go.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in quinoa for farro or add feta cheese for a tangy twist. A sprinkle of lemon zest can elevate the freshness!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold or warm gently on low heat to maintain freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance your Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad, always taste as you go—seasoning makes all the difference!
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor, and ensure your beans are bright green and crisp for maximum enjoyment
Some friends once told me this salad made their picnic a hit! They raved about its freshness and how it paired perfectly with grilled chicken, making me smile with pride.
FAQ
Can I use frozen green beans in this recipe?
Yes, just remember to thaw and drain them before adding to the salad.
How long will the salad last in the fridge?
The salad remains fresh for up to three days when stored properly.
What dressing works best with this Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad?
A light vinaigrette with olive oil and lemon juice enhances flavors beautifully!
Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, the Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad is your perfect companion for sunny days. This delightful dish combines crunchy green beans and chewy farro with juicy cherry tomatoes, zesty red onions, and creamy feta cheese, all coated in a vibrant lemon-olive oil dressing. Ideal for picnics or as a light meal, this salad is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients. Whip it up for a gathering or enjoy it as part of your meal prep!
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 2 tbsp)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine farro with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer until tender (about 25 minutes). Drain excess water.
- Blanch trimmed green beans in boiling salted water for about 3 minutes until vibrant green and tender-crisp. Transfer them immediately to an ice bath to halt cooking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked farro, blanched green beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Drizzle dressing over everything and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Taste for seasoning adjustments; serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
