Salads & sides
Warm farro and roasted vegetable salad with basil pesto and toasted pine nuts for satisfaction.
This evergreen guide reveals how a hearty farro base, roasted vegetables, and a bright basil pesto come together to create a satisfying, versatile salad that holds well at room temperature or warmed.
July 31, 2025 - 3 min Read
Farro stands as a timeless grain for nourishing salads because its chewy texture and nutty flavor pair naturally with roasted vegetables. In this recipe, you start by rinsing the grains and simmering them until tender but still slightly al dente. While the farro cooks, you roast a colorful array of vegetables—bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes—for sweetness and depth. The roasting concentrates sugars, creating a caramelized edge that contrasts beautifully with the grain’s earthiness. A squeeze of lemon introduced at the end brightens the mixture, and a whisper of olive oil keeps everything silky.
As the vegetables finish roasting, prepare a vibrant basil pesto to tie the dish together. Classic ingredients—fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil—meld into a fragrant sauce that clings to each grain and vegetable piece. The pesto serves multiple roles: it injects herbal brightness, acts as a binding agent, and adds a luxurious aroma that lingers. If you prefer a lighter touch, you can whisk in a little water or extra lemon juice to thin the pesto, ensuring it coats without overpowering the natural flavors. The balance is essential for a satisfying bite.
Simple pantry and seasonal swaps keep it flexible and delicious.
When assembling the dish, begin by fluffing the hot farro to release steam and separate the grains. Then fold in the roasted vegetables, allowing their juices to mingle with the nutty base. The pesto is added gradually, not dumped all at once, so you can control intensity and moisture. A handful of toasted pine nuts adds a final crunch that echoes the dish’s nutty backbone. For those who crave extra protein, fold in a handful of chickpeas or crumbled feta. The result is a symphony of textures: chewy grains, crisp edges, creamy pesto, and crisp, toasty nuts.
This salad shines when served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for meal prep or picnics. When kept in the fridge, the flavors deepen, and the grains absorb more of the pesto’s herbal oils. If you reheat, do so gently, with a splash of water or broth to revive the moisture without making everything soggy. A final dusting of lemon zest can lift the dish just before serving. Salt and pepper should be added to taste, because roasted vegetables can carry varying levels of sweetness and savoriness depending on their ripeness and cooking time.
Flavor combinations that elevate comfort without overwhelming.
To tailor the dish to gluten-free needs, ensure the farro you use is the variety labeled as gluten-free or swap in a similar-textured grain like barley or barley alternatives that suits dietary requirements. If you crave a deeper, smoky note, roast the vegetables a touch longer to develop a char. For a richer pesto, lightly toast the pine nuts before grinding them. A touch of grated lemon zest added to the pesto amplifies brightness. If dairy poses a concern, substitute a sharp aged cheese with nutritional yeast for a subtle, savory finish that still delivers depth.
The nutritional profile of this salad is solid for everyday meals. Farro provides complex carbohydrates and fiber, while vegetables contribute a rainbow of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The basil pesto introduces healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, plus the plant-based benefits of fresh herbs. This combination supports steady energy and fullness without heaviness. As a centerpiece or side, the dish adapts to portions and accompaniments, from grilled chicken or fish to a simple crusty loaf and a green salad. Its versatility makes it an enduring option for brunches, weeknight dinners, or casual entertaining.
Practical tips ensure steady results and fewer surprises.
The farro’s chewy texture acts as a neutral canvas for the roasted peppers, zucchini, and onions. The vegetables contribute sweetness and a roasted earthiness that contrasts with the bright, peppery notes of fresh basil in the pesto. Parmesan flakes folded into the pesto bring savoriness that pairs well with the grain’s mild nuttiness. If you prefer a vegan version, omit cheese or replace it with a pinch of miso or nutritional yeast for umami. The balance between grain, vegetables, and herbaceous sauce is what makes this dish memorable rather than merely satisfying.
For a more aromatic presentation, finish with a drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and a few torn fresh basil leaves. The oil enhances the pesto’s sheen and helps the grains glisten, inviting the fork to dive in. Roasting vegetables until they blister slightly creates small, flavorful pockets that pop with each bite. A small amount of salt at the end helps unify the flavors by drawing out the vegetables’ natural sweetness. Serve in a warm bowl to enhance the comforting sensation and to encourage slower, mindful eating.
Enduring appeal through careful technique and broad comfort.
Start by preheating the oven to a moderate temperature so vegetables roast evenly alongside the farro simmering on the stove. Cut vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure consistent roasting; uneven sizes invite variable textures. Spread them on a single layer to prevent steaming, which would dull their flavors. When making the pesto, use fresh, fragrant basil leaves and grate the cheese finely for a smooth, cohesive sauce. A quick pulse in the blender or processor helps emulsify the oils, creating a glossy finish that clings to the grains. Taste and adjust acidity with lemon juice to your preference.
Keep a little extra pesto on the side for those who want more intensity. If you’ve prepared extra vegetables, they can be folded into quinoa or stirred into warm grain bowls on subsequent days. A handful of toasted seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower, can substitute pine nuts if needed. This approach reduces waste and expands the dish’s versatility. When planning meals, consider this salad as a reliable anchor that pairs with many proteins or works beautifully on its own as a nourishing vegetarian option.
The cornerstone of evergreen cooking is adaptability, and this dish embodies that spirit. Its components can be swapped with seasonal produce without losing identity. In early harvest seasons, swap peppers for zucchini blossoms or cherry tomatoes for a brighter sweetness. In cooler months, a warm, comforting drizzle of garlic oil can be added to the parsley and basil mix for a subtle, savory lift. By paying attention to roasting times and grain texture, you ensure every bite remains inviting, never mushy or bland. With practice, you’ll predict textures and flavors intuitively, making this salad a reliable staple.
Finally, presentation matters as much as taste. Arrange the roasted vegetables over the farro in a shallow platter to show the color spectrum. Spoon the pesto in ribbons or dollops, allowing it to mingle with the grains yet remain distinct in places. A handful of pine nuts toasted to a deep brown adds audible crunch as you serve. This dish invites conversation about textures, aromas, and seasonal produce, turning a simple bowl into a memorable dining experience that friends and family will request again and again.
