Pesto Farro With Cherry Tomatoes: A Delightful Summer Dish
Embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with this refreshing Pesto Farro with Cherry Tomatoes recipe, which not only serves as a delightful alternative to traditional rice salads but also provides a wholesome and satisfying meal. This dish captures the essence of sun-ripened tomatoes and the rich, aromatic notes of pesto, all harmoniously combined with farro, a nutritious ancient grain. Serve it with iced tea, savory muffins, and fresh fruit for a perfect lunch or snack option that can easily be dressed up with the addition of cooked prawns for those seeking a heartier meal.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Pesto Farro With Cherry Tomatoes |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Description | A light yet filling summer dish, perfect for lunch or a snack. |
Ingredients
This vibrant dish requires only a few high-quality ingredients that come together beautifully, offering both flavor and nutrition.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pesto Sauce | 280 g |
| Farro | 3/4 to 1 cup |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 500 g |
| Cooked Prawns (optional) | 2-3 cups (for added protein) |
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meals can help maintain a balanced diet, and this recipe is no exception. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 33.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 9.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.2 g |
| Sugars | 4.9 g |
| Protein | 1.6 g |
Instructions
Creating the perfect Pesto Farro with Cherry Tomatoes is a straightforward process that results in a dish bursting with flavor. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a delicious outcome.
Step 1: Prepare the Farro
Begin by rinsing the farro under cold water, allowing the grains to wash away any impurities and excess starch. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture. Next, pour approximately 10 to 11 cups of boiling water over the rinsed farro in a large pot. Bring the water to a rolling boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the farro for about 30 minutes, or until it is tender yet still retains a slight chewiness. It’s important not to overcook the farro, as you want it to hold its shape in the final dish.
Step 2: Drain and Rinse
Once the farro has cooked to perfection, drain it thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer. Rinsing the farro again under cold water will halt the cooking process, ensuring that it does not become mushy. This step also helps cool the farro down, making it suitable for mixing with the pesto sauce and tomatoes.
Step 3: Combine with Pesto
Transfer the drained farro to a large serving bowl. Add the pesto sauce to the bowl and mix thoroughly, ensuring that each grain of farro is generously coated with the fragrant, herbaceous sauce. The pesto will not only add flavor but will also enhance the dish’s visual appeal with its vibrant green color.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Prawns
Now it’s time to incorporate the cherry tomatoes. Halve the tomatoes and gently fold them into the farro and pesto mixture. If you are choosing to add prawns for extra protein, this is the perfect moment to include them as well. Carefully mix everything together, taking care not to crush the tomatoes. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a refreshing and delicious dish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
After the chilling period, your Pesto Farro with Cherry Tomatoes is ready to be served. This dish can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for picnics or summer gatherings. Pair it with a glass of iced tea, some savory muffins, and fresh fruit for a complete meal that is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Cooking Tips
- Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality pesto for the best flavor. Homemade pesto can elevate this dish even further.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, for extra crunch and flavor.
- Storage: This dish can be made a day in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
In conclusion, this Pesto Farro with Cherry Tomatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer flavors, perfect for gatherings or quiet lunches at home. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire, offering a refreshing change from the ordinary rice salad. Enjoy this dish warm or cold, and relish the flavors of the season!
