Caprese Farro Salad

Name: Caprese Farro Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup pearled farro; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into bite-sized pieces; ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on August 16, 2025

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The moment I laid eyes on a Caprese Farro Salad, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. Picture this: vibrant red tomatoes glistening like rubies, creamy mozzarella balls that practically beg for a bite, and a drizzle of basil-infused olive oil that dances around the colors like a friendly Italian waiter showing off his best moves. zesty Thai quinoa crunch salad nutrient-packed avocado quinoa salad This salad isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience, a celebration of flavors that brings together the freshness of summer with every forkful.

I still remember the first time I made it for my friends during a sunny picnic. The sky was as blue as my grandmother’s favorite dishware, and laughter filled the air. As soon as they took their first bite, their eyes widened in delight. It was one of those moments where everyone paused to savor the taste before diving into more awkward small talk. If you want to impress your loved ones (and let’s be honest, yourself), this Caprese Farro Salad is your golden ticket. For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry and Spinach Salad recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Caprese Farro Salad is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors
The mix of textures and colors will elevate any meal
Perfect for picnics or potlucks, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side or main dish

I fondly recall serving this at my sister’s birthday party last year. Everyone raved about how delicious it was and even asked for second helpings.

Essential Ingredients

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

Farro: A hearty grain with a nutty flavor; opt for pearled farro for quicker cooking.
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes; they add sweetness and color to the salad. For more inspiration, check out this Ricotta Tomato Toast recipe.
Fresh Mozzarella: Look for high-quality mozzarella; it should be soft and milky for the best texture. crispy air fryer mozzarella sticks.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Use bright green leaves; they provide aromatic freshness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A good quality oil enhances flavor; drizzle generously for added richness.
Balsamic Vinegar: Opt for aged balsamic for sweetness; it balances well with the tanginess of tomatoes.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together; adjust to taste.

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

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Farro: Begin by rinsing 1 cup of farro under cold water until it runs clear. In a medium pot, combine farro with 3 cups of salted water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes until tender yet chewy.

Prep the Tomatoes: While waiting on the farro, halve 1 pint of cherry tomatoes. delicious Greek chicken meal prep Set them aside in a bowl and sprinkle with salt to enhance their sweetness while you finish prepping.

Add Fresh Mozzarella: Cut 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces. Add them gently to your halved tomatoes while trying not to break them apart too much—no one likes a soggy mozzarella!

Toss in Basil: Roughly chop ¼ cup of fresh basil leaves and toss them into your tomato-cheese mixture. The aroma will hit you like a gentle summer breeze—trust me, no one will be able to resist tasting!

Mix Everything Together: Once your farro is cooked and drained, let it cool slightly before folding it into your tomato-basil mixture along with 3 tablespoons each of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Stir gently until everything is well-coated.

Season and Serve: Finally, give your salad a taste test! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before transferring it to a beautiful serving bowl. Garnish with extra basil leaves if you’re feeling fancy—after all, presentation counts!

And there you have it! A beautiful Caprese Farro Salad ready to impress friends, family, or just yourself because who says you can’t pamper yourself? Enjoy every single bite!

You Must Know

Caprese Farro Salad brings together freshness and heartiness, making it perfect for summer picnics or weeknight dinners
The nutty farro pairs wonderfully with juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, creating a delightful texture that dances on your palate

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the farro according to package instructions while chopping your veggies. This multitasking method saves time and ensures everything is fresh and ready to go.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap farro for quinoa or barley if you prefer. Add nuts, herbs, or even grilled chicken for a protein boost and personalization of flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Caprese Farro Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy it cold, or briefly reheat if you prefer a warm salad.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh basil and high-quality olive oil; they elevate the dish immensely
Avoid overcooking the farro to maintain its pleasant chewiness
Lastly, let the salad rest for 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor melding

Creating this Caprese Farro Salad became my go-to dish for summer barbecues. Friends rave about it every time, asking for the recipe like it’s some secret family heirloom!

FAQ

What can I use instead of farro in this salad?

Try quinoa, barley, or even brown rice as alternative grains in this recipe.

Can I make Caprese Farro Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it a day in advance; flavors will deepen overnight in the fridge.

How long does Caprese Farro Salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh in an airtight container for about three days without losing flavor.