Refreshing Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad Recipe

Name: Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pearled farro; 1 lb fresh green beans; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, diced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

April 26, 2025

Updated:

April 26, 2025

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Imagine a sunny picnic day, the kind where the grass is lush, and the clouds seem to have taken a day off. You’re lounging with your friends, and suddenly, someone pulls out a vibrant Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad that looks like it belongs on the cover of a gourmet magazine. The fresh green beans snap as you bite into them, mingling with the chewy farro and a zesty vinaigrette that dances on your taste buds. This salad is not just food; it’s an experience, a celebration of flavors that practically shouts summer.

I remember the first time I made this salad for a gathering. My friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got to enjoy my own bowl! It quickly became our go-to dish for picnics and potlucks. Whether you’re lounging in the park or hosting a backyard barbecue, this dish brings joy and color to any occasion. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days
Its delightful blend of textures and flavors keeps everyone coming back for more
The salad’s beautiful colors make it visually appealing for any gathering
It’s versatile enough to serve as a side or a main dish with protein additions like grilled chicken or chickpeas

I once brought this salad to a family reunion, and let’s just say my Aunt Linda was convinced I had become some sort of culinary wizard.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Green Beans: Look for vibrant green beans that are firm and crisp; they should snap when bent.
Farro: Choose pearled farro for quicker cooking; it’s chewy and nutty in flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes to add sweetness and color; halve them for easy munching.
Red Onion: A small amount adds sharpness; consider soaking it in water first to mellow its flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides creaminess that complements the crunch of the vegetables perfectly.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for dressing; it enhances flavors without overpowering them.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the salad with zingy freshness.
Dried Oregano: A sprinkle of dried oregano adds an earthy aroma—perfect for summer vibes!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Farro: Begin by bringing 4 cups of salted water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1 cup of farro and cook until tender, about 25-30 minutes. Drain any excess water and set aside.

Prepare the Green Beans: While the farro cooks, bring another pot of salted water to boil. Add 1 pound of fresh green beans and blanch them until bright green but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking.

Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In an oversized mixing bowl, combine cooked farro, drained green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.

Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, juice from one lemon, salt to taste, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano until well combined.

Toss Everything Together**: Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and toss gently until everything is beautifully coated. Adjust seasoning if needed—this is where you can make it uniquely yours!

Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature**: Let your salad sit for about 15 minutes before serving so flavors can meld together beautifully. Enjoy your creation with friends or keep it all to yourself—it’s hard not to!

This Green Bean and Farro Picnic Salad is more than just a salad; it’s a celebration on a plate! With every bite bursting with freshness from garden veggies paired with nutty grains—it’s truly irresistible! So grab those picnic blankets, gather your pals (or keep it all for yourself), because this fabulous dish deserves its moment in the sun!

You Must Know

This delightful green bean and farro picnic salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience
The crunchy texture of the beans paired with chewy farro makes every bite a joy
Plus, it’s colorful enough to brighten any picnic spread!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the farro first, letting it cool while you blanch the green beans for that perfect crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out farro for quinoa or add nuts for extra crunch and flavor depth.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy them cold or at room temperature.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best results, use fresh green beans; frozen can get mushy
Rinse farro well before cooking to enhance its nutty flavor
Lastly, don’t skimp on seasoning—it’s vital for bringing out the salad’s vibrant flavors

Sharing this dish at my last picnic was a hit. Friends raved about the flavor combo, and I felt like a culinary rock star!

FAQ

What makes green bean and farro picnic salad special?

This salad combines textures and flavors that create a refreshing yet hearty dish.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to three days without losing its charm.

How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?

The recipe is naturally vegan; just ensure all ingredients are plant-based!

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