Farro Salad With Fennel Oranges Almonds (Printable Version)

Nutty farro mingles with crisp fennel, juicy oranges, and toasted almonds in a bright citrus dressing.

# Ingredient List:

→ Grain

01 - 1 cup uncooked whole grain farro
02 - 3 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Produce

04 - 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced (reserve fronds for garnish)
05 - 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
06 - 2 cups arugula or baby spinach
07 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

→ Nuts

08 - 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

→ Dressing

09 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
11 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
12 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
13 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
14 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# How to Make:

01 - Rinse farro under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine farro, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until tender but still chewy. Drain any excess water and let cool.
02 - Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
03 - In a large bowl, combine cooled farro, sliced fennel, orange segments, arugula (or spinach), and parsley.
04 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
05 - Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
06 - Add toasted almonds and toss lightly. Garnish with reserved fennel fronds. Serve immediately or chilled.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The farro stays perfectly chewy, not mushy, if you follow the timing
  • The fennel adds this amazing subtle anise flavor that surprises everyone
  • You can make it ahead and it actually tastes better the next day
02 -
  • Let the farro cool completely before adding the greens or they will wilt
  • The dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge
  • Fennel fronds are edible and make the most beautiful garnish
03 -
  • Spend the extra time to properly segment the oranges, it makes every bite perfect
  • Toast more almonds than you need because they will disappear as you taste test
  • Farro can vary in cooking time, start checking at 20 minutes
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