Easy and Healthy Garlic Herb Farro Recipe

Ready for a Mediterranean Flavor Explosion? This Garlic & Herb Farro is Calling Your Name!

Imagine a dish that’s both incredibly flavorful and satisfyingly healthy. This Garlic & Herb Infused Farro with Kalamata Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is exactly that! It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for a dinner party. Get ready to fall in love with this simple yet elegant side (or main!) dish.

Why You’ll Love It

• Bursting with Mediterranean flavors – think garlic, herbs, salty olives, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
• Incredibly versatile – serve it as a side, a base for a salad, or a light vegetarian meal.
• Easy to prepare – requires minimal effort and comes together quickly, even on busy days.
• Hearty and satisfying – the farro provides a wonderfully chewy texture and keeps you feeling full.
• Easily customizable – feel free to add your favorite veggies, proteins, or cheeses!

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this farro apart is the way the garlic and herbs are infused into the grains while they cook. This method creates a depth of flavor that you wouldn’t get just by tossing them in at the end. The combination of briny Kalamata olives and sweet sun-dried tomatoes provides a perfect balance of flavors, making each bite an exciting experience. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a flavor adventure!

Ingredient List

• 1 cup farro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped. (Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated sweetness and chewiness to this dish.)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Rinse the farro in a fine-mesh sieve under cold water.
2. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the rinsed farro, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir to coat the farro in the garlic-infused oil.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the farro is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff the farro with a fork and add the halved Kalamata olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir gently to combine.
7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your farro to the next level? Try these delicious additions:

• Feta Cheese: Crumble some feta cheese over the warm farro for a creamy and salty boost.
• Lemon Zest: Add some lemon zest for a pop of brightness.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for added texture and nutty flavor.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the step of rinsing the farro, it removes excess starch and helps it cook better.
• Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing; burnt garlic will impart a bitter flavor.
• Use good quality vegetable or chicken broth to enhance the overall flavor.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
• Letting the farro rest after cooking allows the steam to fully absorb, making it more tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use a different grain? While this recipe is designed for farro, you can substitute it with other grains like barley or quinoa. Cooking times might vary, so adjust accordingly.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! This farro can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too dry.
• Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely! Use 1 tablespoon of each fresh oregano and thyme, finely chopped. Add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking to preserve their fresh flavor.
• What can I substitute for Kalamata olives? You can use green olives or another type of brined olive of your choice, just be sure to adjust seasoning to taste if the salt content differs.
• Can I add protein to this dish? Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans would all be great additions to this dish.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to change things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts for added nutrients and flavor.
• Make it Vegan: Ensure your vegetable broth is vegan. This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly!
• Add Cheese: For a non-vegan option, add some grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a fiery kick.

Serving Suggestions

This farro is incredibly versatile! Serve it as a hearty side dish alongside grilled fish, chicken, or lamb. It can also be a delicious base for a Mediterranean-style bowl, topped with your favorite veggies and a dollop of hummus or tzatziki. For a light vegetarian meal, enjoy it on its own or with a fresh side salad.

Conclusion

This Garlic & Herb Infused Farro with Kalamata Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations! Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes.

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