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Foolproof Summer Farro Veggie Bowl

A crisp, herbaceous farro bowl packed with summer vegetables and a bright lemon dressing. The technique keeps greens from wilting and grains perfectly chewy.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup pearled farro
  • 3 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt plus more to taste
  • 1 large zucchini about 8 ounces
  • 1 large ear of corn husked
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1/2 small red onion
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves roughly chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice from 1 lemon
  • 1 small garlic clove minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese optional

Equipment

  • medium saucepan with lid
  • fine-mesh strainer
  • large mixing bowl
  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • vegetable peeler
  • citrus juicer
  • small whisk or jar for dressing

Method
 

  1. Rinse the farro under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer for about 30 seconds. 2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed farro, 3 cups water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes, until the farro is tender but still chewy (al dente). Drain any excess water and spread the farro on a baking sheet to cool quickly—about 10 minutes. 3. While the farro cooks, prepare the vegetables. Slice the zucchini lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick planks, then cut crosswise into half-moons. Cut the corn kernels off the cob: stand the ear upright in a shallow bowl and slice downward with a sharp knife. Dice the bell pepper into 1/2-inch pieces. Thinly slice the red onion into half-rings. Halve the cherry tomatoes. 4. Make the dressing: in a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. 5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled farro, zucchini, corn, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly. 6. Fold in the basil and mint just before serving to keep them bright. Taste and adjust salt or lemon as needed. 7. Divide among bowls and top with feta if using. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Notes

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight. For meal prep, store the herbs separately and add just before serving to prevent discoloration. To make it a full protein meal, add chickpeas or grilled chicken. The key ratio is 1 cup farro to 3 cups water; do not use less water or the grains will be gummy.