Roasted Mushroom Green Bean Farro Salad with Balsamic
Nutty farro pairs with caramelized roasted vegetables in this hearty grain salad that works as a satisfying lunch or dinner side. Earthy mushrooms and crisp-tender green beans develop deep flavors through roasting, while creamy crumbled cheese and toasted walnuts add richness and crunch. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with tangy brightness. Perfect for meal prep or potluck gatherings, this versatile salad tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup farro
- 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed and cut into bite sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon oil
- ½ teaspoon thyme, chopped
- salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup feta, goat or blue cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup walnuts, coarsely chopped and toasted
- ¼ cup balsamic vinaigrette
- ½ teaspoon thyme, chopped
Instructions
- 1
Bring water and farro to a boil, reduce heat and simmer covered until al dente
- 2
Toss mushrooms and green beans with oil, thyme, salt and pepper
- 3
Place vegetables on baking sheet in single layer
- 4
Roast vegetables until they start to caramelize, flipping halfway through
- 5
Mix everything together
Tips
Toast walnuts in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor before adding to the salad.
Make sure vegetables are in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure proper caramelization rather than steaming.
Let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving to allow the farro to absorb the vinaigrette flavors.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Can be made up to 2 days ahead. Add cheese and nuts just before serving to maintain texture.
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled as a side dish or light main course.
Common Mistakes
Don't overcrowd the baking sheet to avoid steaming vegetables instead of roasting.
Don't skip flipping vegetables halfway through roasting to ensure even caramelization.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use other grains instead of farro?
Yes, quinoa, bulgur, or brown rice work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly - quinoa takes 15 minutes, bulgur 12 minutes.
What if I don't have balsamic vinaigrette?
Make your own with 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper whisked together.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
The salad stays fresh for up to 4 days covered in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after a day.