This grilled asparagus and farro salad is a beautifully balanced dish, combining the savory flavor of charred asparagus with the nutty, chewy farro. The bright lemon and fragrant thyme tie everything together, creating a refreshing and satisfying meal perfect for warm weather.
The addition of optional feta adds a creamy, salty finish, while the honey and balsamic vinegar bring a subtle sweetness and acidity to the mix. This versatile salad can be served as a main dish or as a side to complement grilled meats or seafood.
Full Recipe:
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1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
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1 cup farro
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
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1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon honey (optional)
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
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Rinse the farro under cold water. In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the farro and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
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While the farro is cooking, prepare the asparagus. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
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Grill the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
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Once the asparagus is grilled, slice it into 2-inch pieces.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro, grilled asparagus, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh thyme. Toss to combine.
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If desired, drizzle with honey and balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
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Optionally, top with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Appeal of Grilled Asparagus
Asparagus is one of those vegetables that shines when grilled. When exposed to high heat, asparagus becomes tender yet retains its slight crunch. The natural sugars in the vegetable caramelize slightly, enhancing its flavor, while the grilling process imparts a smoky, charred note that adds depth to its taste. In this recipe, the asparagus is simply seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, allowing its natural flavors to shine through while adding a delightful smokiness to the dish.
Asparagus is also highly nutritious, offering a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate. This vegetable is also known for its diuretic properties, helping with detoxification and supporting healthy kidney function.
Farro: A Nutritious and Satisfying Grain
Farro, an ancient whole grain, is a wonderful addition to this salad. It’s chewy and nutty in texture, making it a satisfying base that complements the tenderness of the grilled asparagus. Farro is also packed with nutrients, including fiber, protein, and several key vitamins and minerals. It’s an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, which provide lasting energy throughout the day.
Farro has a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with vegetables, herbs, and fresh citrus. It holds up well in salads, making it a great option for this dish. Farro’s hearty texture contrasts nicely with the lighter, tender asparagus, providing balance and making the salad feel more substantial. It’s also a great base for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for a few days without losing its texture.
The Freshness of Lemon and Thyme
The combination of lemon and thyme is one that has stood the test of time. Lemon, with its bright, tangy flavor, brings a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the farro and the smoky grilled asparagus. Its citrusy zing is perfect for adding a burst of freshness to any dish, especially one like this where the flavors of the vegetables are the main focus.
Thyme, on the other hand, adds a subtle herbal note that complements both the asparagus and the farro. Its earthy flavor enhances the overall dish, lending a slight warmth and depth that contrasts with the bright lemon. Fresh thyme is a versatile herb that works well with grilled vegetables, adding complexity without overpowering the other ingredients. Together, these two ingredients create a balanced and harmonious flavor profile that elevates this salad to the next level.
Optional Additions and Variations
One of the great things about this grilled asparagus and farro salad is its versatility. While the core ingredients are simple, there are plenty of ways to personalize the dish based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
For a boost of creaminess and flavor, you can add crumbled feta cheese to the salad. Feta’s salty and tangy taste pairs wonderfully with the earthy asparagus and the brightness of the lemon. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try substituting feta with a dairy-free cheese or simply omitting it altogether.
If you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing, you can drizzle the salad with honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness that contrasts with the acidity of the lemon. Additionally, balsamic vinegar can add another layer of depth with its sweet-tart profile, making the salad even more complex in flavor.
For those who want to make this dish heartier, consider adding roasted or grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein. This salad can also be served alongside other grilled meats, making it a great option for a summer barbecue or family gathering.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
This grilled asparagus and farro salad is an excellent option for meal prepping. The farro and grilled asparagus store well in the fridge, and the salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. It’s a great make-ahead dish for busy lunches or dinners. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
Since the salad is packed with fiber and healthy fats, it’s also very filling, meaning you can enjoy it as a standalone lunch or dinner. The combination of protein from farro, healthy fats from olive oil, and a good dose of vitamins from the asparagus and lemon makes it a balanced and nourishing meal that will keep you satisfied for hours.
Why You Should Try This Salad
If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying dish that’s both delicious and healthy, this grilled asparagus and farro salad with lemon and thyme is a must-try. It’s simple to make, full of fresh ingredients, and bursting with vibrant flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a picnic, a quick meal for lunch, or a nutritious side to complement your dinner, this salad fits the bill.
Moreover, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it based on your preferences. From the addition of feta cheese to variations in the dressing, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste. Plus, with the added nutritional benefits of asparagus, farro, lemon, and thyme, you can feel good about what you’re eating while indulging in a deliciously satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Grilled asparagus and farro salad with lemon and thyme is the ultimate summer dish. It combines the smoky, charred flavors of grilled vegetables with the hearty texture of farro, all brought together with the brightness of lemon and the aromatic notes of thyme. The salad is easy to make, healthy, and adaptable, making it perfect for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation.
The recipe is not only a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients but also a reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. So, next time you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and nutritious dish, this grilled asparagus and farro salad with lemon and thyme is the perfect choice.