Herbed farro medley

Photo by giffconstable (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Visually stunning, this recipe also provides a wealth of textures and health benefits. Farro is an ancient grain that has been used in Italy for centuries. Farro has twice the fiber and protein of modern wheat. While farro does contain gluten, the gluten molecules are reported to be weaker than modern wheat, so it is easier to digest. Farro has a nutty flavor similar to brown rice. Pumpkin seeds are a fantastic source of zinc, which supports immune function and skin health.
 
Prep

• 1 cup farro
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
• ⅓ cup cilantro
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 clove garlic
• ½ cup celery
• ½ lemon

 
Cook farro in a medium saucepan with broth. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat to simmer. Continue to cook until tender, about 30 minutes. Drain, allow to cool.
 
Toast pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Finely chop cilantro, spinach and garlic. Slice celery and lemon.
 
Assemble

• 3 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon walnut oil
  
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper

 
In a small bowl, combine oils, salt and pepper, whisk gently. In a large bowl, combine cilantro, spinach and garlic. Toss with oil mixture. Stir in celery, salt, pepper, and pumpkin seeds. Stir in farro. Sprinkle with feta and cranberries. Toss again right before serving.
 
Serve
Serve with a squeeze of lemon.
 
Preparation: 45 minutes
Serves: 4