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As the seasons shift and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm salad that encapsulates the essence of autumn. The Warm Apple Walnut Farro Salad is a vibrant, nourishing dish that celebrates the flavors and colors of the fall harvest. This salad combines the nutty texture of farro with the sweetness of apples, the crunch of walnuts, and a hint of tartness from dried cranberries, creating a delightful medley that is both satisfying and wholesome. Beyond its delicious taste, this salad is packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a hearty lunch or a light dinner.

Warm Apple Walnut Farro Salad

Celebrate the flavors of autumn with the Warm Apple Walnut Farro Salad, a delightful dish that combines nutty farro, crisp apples, and crunchy walnuts for a nourishing meal that's perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this salad is both satisfying and wholesome. Enjoy it warm or chilled, and feel free to customize it with seasonal ingredients. Discover how easy it is to prepare this vibrant, healthful dish that brings the essence of fall to your table!

Ingredients
  

1 cup farro

3 cups vegetable broth (or water)

2 medium-sized sweet apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), diced

1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley or arugula, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Farro: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of farro with 3 cups of vegetable broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for approximately 30-35 minutes until the farro is tender yet retains a chewy texture. After cooking, drain any remaining liquid and set the farro aside to cool for a few minutes.

    Toast the Walnuts: Place a dry skillet over medium heat and add the chopped walnuts. Toast the walnuts for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and golden brown. Once toasted, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the walnuts to cool.

      Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well-blended.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked farro, diced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and finely diced red onion. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top and gently toss everything together to ensure each ingredient is evenly coated.

          Warm It Up: If you prefer your salad warm, return the mixed salad to the skillet over medium heat. Stir gently for 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through, being careful to prevent sticking.

            Serve: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or a handful of peppery arugula to enhance the dish's visual appeal and flavor.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4-6