Ricotta & Roasted Grape Farro Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing
A hearty, nutritious, and slightly sweet salad perfect for any season! 🍇🥗
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup farro, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Honey Lemon Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Farro – Cook farro according to package instructions, then let it cool slightly.
- Roast the Grapes – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss grapes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 15 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Make the Dressing – Whisk together olive oil, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Assemble the Salad – In a large bowl, combine farro, roasted grapes, toasted walnuts, and chopped basil.
- Add Ricotta – Gently fold in ricotta cheese in small spoonfuls.
- Dress & Serve – Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and enjoy!
Notes & Tips:
✅ Substitutes for Ricotta: Try goat cheese or feta for a tangier taste.
✅ Make it Vegan: Swap ricotta for dairy-free cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey.
✅ Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
✅ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: ~9g
- Carbs: ~40g
- Fats: ~14g
- Fiber: ~6g
Health Benefits:
✔ High in Fiber & Whole Grains – Farro is packed with fiber and nutrients.
✔ Rich in Antioxidants – Grapes and basil provide anti-inflammatory properties.
✔ Good for Heart Health – Olive oil and walnuts support cardiovascular wellness.
✔ Balanced Sweet & Savory Flavors – Perfect for a satisfying meal or side dish.
Q&A:
💡 Can I serve this warm or cold?
- Both! It’s delicious fresh and warm but also great as a chilled salad.
💡 Can I use a different grain?
- Yes! Quinoa, barley, or brown rice make great substitutes.
💡 What pairs well with this salad?
- Serve it with grilled fish, chicken, or a glass of white wine for a light meal.
Enjoy your Ricotta & Roasted Grape Farro Salad with Honey Lemon Dressing! 🍯🍋🍇