Side dishes

Spelt salad

⏱ 20 min🍳 10 min👤 3 pp★★☆☆☆

Salads made from cereals - such as barley, spelt or mixed cereals - are exceptionally good for us, which is why it is a good idea to eat more of them. Moreover, you can enjoy cereals every day, varying the type, flavour and dressings so as not to make your meals monotonous. In this recipe we suggest spelt with fresh radishes, tomatoes and basil, but you can customize the recipe according to what’s hanging around in your fridge, growing in your garden or simply according to taste and imagination.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 420 kcal / serving

Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
48g
Fat
18g
Fiber
8g

* approximate values per serving

Information
20 minutes Total time
10 minutes Active time
Serves 3 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

Boil the spelt in salted water for 10 minutes. Chop the tomatoes, radishes, basil and pitted olives. Mix everything with the cooked and drained spelt. Season with olive oil, lemon juice and salt. Complete with some hard-boiled eggs cut into wedges.

Tips
Be careful: spelt contains gluten!
Trivia
Spelt is a cereal which is native to Turkey. Here in Italy it is a popular and widespread in Tuscany, where it becomes the main element of many fabulous hot soups enjoyed during the winter. Spelt exists in three varieties, small, medium or large.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Farro Salad with Tomatoes and Hard-Boiled Eggs

One of the tastiest variations of farro salad is definitely the one with fresh tomatoes and hard-boiled eggs. In this preparation, the farro is boiled and mixed with ripe tomatoes, which add freshness and color to the dish. The hard-boiled eggs, cut into wedges, further enrich the salad, making it a complete and nutritious dish. To prepare it, simply follow the basic recipe, but with the addition of these ingredients that make it particularly flavorful. This combination is not only delicious but also provides a good dose of protein, making the salad ideal for a summer lunch or a light dinner. Don't forget to dress it all with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

Tuscan Farro Salad with Radishes and Basil

The Tuscan farro salad is a true tribute to the culinary tradition of the region. In this variation, fresh and genuine ingredients typical of Tuscan cuisine are used, such as crunchy radishes and fragrant basil. The farro, an ancient grain rich in nutrients, is boiled and then mixed with sliced radishes and torn basil. This preparation stands out for its fresh and aromatic taste, perfect for the warmer months. It is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or as a main course, and can be customized with the addition of other ingredients, such as Taggiasca olives, for an extra touch of flavor. The recipe is simple and quick to prepare, ideal for those who want to bring a healthy and tasty dish to the table.

Light Farro Salad without Eggs

For those looking for a lighter alternative, farro salad can be prepared without eggs, while still maintaining a high nutritional value. This light version is perfect for those following a low-calorie diet or for anyone wanting to reduce caloric intake without sacrificing flavor. In this preparation, the farro is mixed with tomatoes, radishes, and basil, dressed with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice. The absence of eggs makes the dish lower in calories, but not less flavorful. The fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, making the salad an excellent choice for a nutritious and balanced meal. This recipe is also ideal for vegetarians, allowing them to enjoy a dish rich in flavors and colors.

Nutritional Benefits of Farro Salad and Approximate Calories

Farro salad is a dish rich in health benefits, thanks to the use of farro, a highly nutritious whole grain. This ingredient is an excellent source of fiber, which helps maintain good intestinal function and can contribute to a prolonged feeling of fullness. Additionally, farro is rich in plant-based proteins, B vitamins, and minerals such as magnesium and iron. On average, a serving of farro salad prepared with tomatoes, radishes, and basil provides about 250-300 calories, depending on the quantities used and the oil employed for dressing. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy and balanced diet without giving up flavor and variety.

Can Farro Salad be Stored in the Refrigerator?

Yes, farro salad can be stored in the refrigerator, but it is advisable to do so in an airtight container to keep the ingredients fresh. It is best consumed within 2-3 days of preparation to ensure maximum freshness and flavor. If the salad has been dressed, it may lose some crunchiness, so it is advisable to dress it just before serving, especially if using fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil. In case of preparation in advance, it is possible to store the boiled farro and the other ingredients separately, combining them only at the time of consumption. This will ensure better texture and optimal flavor.