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Fresh Cranberry Apple Farro Salad

Fresh Cranberry Apple Farro Salad for Festive Feasting

Enjoy this Fresh Cranberry Apple Farro Salad, a vibrant dish perfect for holiday feasting and everyday meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup farro Consider quinoa for quicker cooking.
  • 4 cups chicken broth Swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 tablespoon butter Use olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme Fresh rosemary can substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Substitute with whole grain mustard or omit.
  • 2 cups celery Diced bell peppers can make a great swap.
  • 1 medium Honey Crisp Apple Use Fuji or Granny Smith if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley Cilantro can be an exciting substitute.
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries Dried cranberries can be used but adjust syrup for sweetness.
  • 1 cup Cranberry Juice Cocktail 100% cranberry juice is a healthier choice.
  • 1/4 cup real maple syrup Honey or agave can also be used.
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a suitable alternative.
  • to taste salt Adjust to your taste preferences.
  • to taste black pepper Use white pepper for a milder heat.
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecan pieces Walnuts can mimic this texture.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • small saucepan
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Fresh Cranberry Apple Farro Salad
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of farro with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes until tender. Drain excess liquid and fluff with a fork. Allow to cool.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of cranberry juice, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and 1 cup of fresh cranberries. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5 minutes until cranberries start to burst. Stir in the remaining mustard, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, and add salt and pepper to taste.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled farro, diced honey crisp apple, 1/2 cup chopped parsley, and 2 cups diced celery. Toss gently to distribute. Fold in cranberry mixture and 1/2 cup toasted pecan pieces.
  4. Optionally garnish with additional fresh parsley or thyme before serving. Enjoy warm or cold. For make-ahead, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 8gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This salad not only serves well during festive seasons but also makes for an excellent meal prep option that stays fresh in the fridge.

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