Farro Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash
**Farro Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash: A Nutritious and Flavorful Dish**
Farro salad with roasted butternut squash is a vibrant, hearty, and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of ancient grains with the sweetness of roasted vegetables. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect option for a wholesome meal or a side dish. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a dish to bring to a potluck, farro salad with roasted butternut squash is a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice.
### What is Farro?
Farro is an ancient grain that has been cultivated for thousands of years, particularly in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. It is a type of hulled wheat that comes in three main varieties: einkorn, emmer, and spelt. Emmer, the most common variety, is often referred to simply as “farro” in grocery stores.
Farro has a chewy texture and a nutty flavor, making it a popular choice for salads, soups, and grain bowls. It is also highly nutritious, providing a good source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Farro is rich in magnesium, iron, and zinc, and it contains more protein than many other grains, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking to boost their protein intake.
### The Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a winter squash that is known for its sweet, nutty flavor and vibrant orange flesh. It is low in calories but high in essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. The bright orange color of butternut squash is due to its high content of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A. This nutrient is important for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function.
Roasting butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness and enhances its flavor, making it a perfect complement to the nutty taste of farro. The caramelized edges of the roasted squash add a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the grains, creating a satisfying and well-balanced dish.
### Ingredients for Farro Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash
To make a delicious farro salad with roasted butternut squash, you’ll need the following ingredients:
#### For the Salad:
– 1 cup farro (uncooked)
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for added creaminess)
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (for a touch of sweetness)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or arugula (for a burst of freshness)
– 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts (for crunch)
#### For the Dressing:
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### 1. Cook the Farro
Start by cooking the farro according to the package instructions. Typically, farro is cooked in a 2:1 ratio of water to grain. Bring water to a boil, add the farro, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 20-30 minutes until the grains are tender but still chewy. Drain any excess water and set the cooked farro aside to cool.
#### 2. Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast the squash for 25-30 minutes, or until it is tender and caramelized around the edges. Be sure to flip the squash halfway through roasting to ensure even browning.
#### 3. Prepare the Dressing
While the farro and squash are cooking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
#### 4. Assemble the Salad
Once the farro has cooled slightly and the butternut squash is roasted, it’s time to assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked farro, roasted butternut squash, crumbled feta cheese (if using), dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds, chopped parsley or arugula, and toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.
#### 5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the