Roasted Sweet Potato and Farro Salad
Roasted Sweet Potato and Farro Salad
This grain and pasta salad is a delightful blend of earthy sweet potato, nutty farro, and a bright lemon-tahini dressing. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that serves equally well as a main course or a substantial side, embodying the versatility characteristic of grain salads. The tender, caramelized roasted sweet potatoes offer a soft counterpoint to the firm, chewy texture of the farro. Pepitas introduce a satisfying crunch, while fresh parsley and mint contribute an aromatic, herbaceous freshness. This salad is designed for adaptability, allowing for additions like crumbled feta for a salty tang or grilled chicken for added protein, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.
- Preparation time
- 25 min
- Cooking time
- 30 min
- Total time
- 55 min
- Servings
- 4
Instructions
Prepare the Farro and Sweet Potatoes
- 1Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2Cook farro according to package directions, typically simmering in salted water for 25-30 minutes until tender but still chewy. Drain and set aside.
- 3Toss diced sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 0.5 teaspoon salt, and 0.25 teaspoon black pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and lightly caramelized.
Make the Lemon-Tahini Dressing
- 1While the sweet potatoes roast, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, maple syrup, 3 tablespoons water, and 0.25 teaspoon salt in a small bowl until smooth. Add more water, if needed, to reach a pourable consistency.
Assemble the Salad
- 1In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro and roasted sweet potatoes.
- 2Add the toasted pepitas, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh mint to the bowl.
- 3Pour the lemon-tahini dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to ensure everything is well coated.
- 4Serve warm or at room temperature. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 451 kcal
- Protein
- 15 g
- Fat
- 19 g
- Carbs
- 58 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 451 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Carbs | 58 g |
Tips
- For quicker prep, cook farro ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. Toasting pepitas enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch.
- Ensure sweet potato cubes are uniform in size for even roasting. Don't overcrowd the baking sheet to allow for proper caramelization.