Caprese Farro Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup farro, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Farro: In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed farro and reduce the heat to low. Simmer, covered, for about 25-30 minutes or until the farro is tender but still chewy. Drain any excess liquid and let it cool.
2. Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked farro, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and sliced basil leaves.
3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates. You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Variations:

• Add Protein: For added protein, you can incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or cannellini beans.
• Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as cucumber, bell peppers, or avocado to enhance the salad’s freshness and nutrition.
• Herb Variation: Instead of or in addition to basil, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley, mint, or oregano.
• Grain Variation: If you don’t have farro, you can substitute it with cooked quinoa, bulgur, or barley.

Storing:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Note: The salad may become slightly watery as it sits due to the tomatoes releasing their juices. You can drain off any excess liquid before serving leftover portions.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
• Enjoy as a light lunch or dinner on its own, accompanied by a crusty bread or garlic bread.
• Pack it into lunch boxes or picnic baskets for a flavorful and nutritious meal on the go.
• Serve as a refreshing appetizer at parties or gatherings, arranged on a platter or skewers for easy serving.