Roasted Cherry Thyme Citrus Farro

There is something incredibly satisfying about the pop of a roasted cherry mixed with the chew of a nutty grain. I first threw this together on a whim when a basket of cherries was looking a little too sad to eat out of hand but too precious to toss. The way the heat draws out the juices and concentrates the sweetness turned a simple grain salad into something that feels like a proper meal. It has since become my go to for nights when I want food that feels bright and cheerful but do not want to turn the stove on for hours.

I remember serving this at a rooftop dinner last summer right as the sun was setting. The vibrant red of the cherries against the green arugula looked almost too good to eat on the table. My friend Sarah usually hates grain salads but went back for seconds just to fish out all the caramelized fruit bits. Seeing a dish that looks so elegant come together with such simple ingredients is always a win in my book.

Ingredients

• Farro: Chewy and nutty this ancient grain provides the perfect hearty base to soak up the dressing.
• Fresh Cherries: Roasting them transforms their flavor into something jammy and intense.
• Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy salty element that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
• Pistachios: Toasted nuts bring a necessary crunch and richness to each bite.
• Thyme: An earthy herb that bridges the gap between the savory grains and sweet fruit.
• Citrus: Orange segments and zest add a zesty brightness that cuts through the olive oil.

Instructions

Roast the Cherries:

Toss the pitted cherries with olive oil thyme salt and pepper then roast at high heat until they are soft and their juices have thickened. Let them cool slightly so they do not wilt the greens when mixed.

Cook the Farro:

Simmer the farro in salted water until it is tender but still has a nice chew to it. Drain any excess liquid and fluff it up to help it cool down.

Make the Dressing:

Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil lemon juice honey mustard and orange zest until it emulsifies into a smooth vinaigrette.

Save

This salad really became a staple for me during busy weeks when I needed something nourishing but fast. It sits on the counter looking beautiful and inviting people to just graze rather than sit down formally. Food that encourages gathering around the kitchen island is always the best kind.

Grain Swaps

While farro has a distinct chew that works beautifully here you can use other grains if that is what you have in the pantry. Quinoa will make it lighter while barley will make it even heartier and more robust.

Dairy Free Options

If you need to skip the cheese try adding diced avocado for creaminess instead. You might also miss the salty hit of feta so a few extra chopped olives or capers can help round out the flavor profile.

Make Ahead Magic

This dish is actually better if you let it sit for an hour before serving so the grains soak up the dressing. It travels well for potlucks and stays fresh in the fridge for a quick lunch.

• Store the pistachios separately and add them right before serving to keep them crunchy.
• If taking this to a picnic keep the dressing in a small jar and toss it on site.
• This pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine or a light iced tea.

Save

I hope this brings a little burst of summer color to your table no matter the season. Enjoy every bite of this sweet and savory creation.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, simply omit the crumbled feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.

→ Is farro gluten-free?

No, farro is a type of wheat and contains gluten. You can easily substitute it with quinoa or barley.

→ How do I pit fresh cherries easily?

Use a cherry pitter if you have one. Alternatively, you can slice the cherry in half and remove the pit with the tip of a knife.

→ Can I serve this warm?

Yes, it is delicious served slightly warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for picnics or dinner.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days.