Vegetarian Farro and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad Recipe

Looking for a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian salad that’s perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying side dish, or even a potluck contribution? This Vegetarian Farro and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is your answer! It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, boasts a delightful mix of textures, and is surprisingly easy to make.

Farro, an ancient grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture, forms the hearty base of this salad. Roasting the butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness, which is perfectly complemented by the earthy farro. But what truly elevates this salad is the addition of other vibrant ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 cup farro, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, can omit for vegan)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Dressing:
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. While the squash is roasting, cook the farro. Combine the farro and vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the farro is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro, roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. If desired, sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.

This salad is delicious served warm or cold. You can easily adapt it to your preferences by adding other vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or kale. For a vegan option, simply omit the feta cheese and ensure your maple syrup is vegan-friendly. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful Vegetarian Farro and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad!

Ingredients:
Butternut squash, farro, vegetable broth, dried cranberries, pecans or walnuts, feta cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup or honey, Dijon mustard

Tags:
Vegetarian, Farro, Butternut Squash, Salad, Roasted Vegetables, Recipe, Vegan, Healthy, Lunch, Side Dish, Potluck, Cranberries, Pecans, Walnuts, Feta Cheese, Balsamic Vinegar, Maple Syrup, Dijon Mustard, Fall Recipes, Autumn Recipes, Grain Salad