Combine the nutty flavor of whole-grain farro with the crisp bright flavors of a caprese salad for the best summer salad your guests and family will love. Caprese salads have a wonderful combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella cheese. Farro is an ancient whole grain with a chewy texture and a distinct nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with bright tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese.

The total cook time for this salad is about 25 minutes and serves four people.

Farro Caprese Salad

Ingredients

• 2 cups farro
• 4 cups water
• 12 ounces cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 10 ounces small fresh mozzarella balls, quartered
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 cup basil leaves packed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 tablespoons champagne vinegar
• Salt to taste
• A touch of red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Instructions

1. Put the water, farro, and a pinch of salt into a medium-sized pot. Cover and bring the combination to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for 13 to 15 minutes or until the water has evaporated and the farro is tender.

2. In a large salad bowl, mix the cooked farro with the quartered cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.

3. To make the salad dressing, combine the garlic and basil in a food processor. Pulse until well-blended, scraping the sides of the container as needed. Add the olive oil, parmesan cheese, champagne vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Pulse until blended. Season to taste with salt. Toss the salad dressing with the farro, top the salad with toasted pine nuts, and serve.

Sources: Ohmyveggies.com, Goodhousekeeping.com