Mediterranean Farro Salad

Farro is a grain with a nutty flavor similar to brown rice.  This is a great salad to take to a picnic or serve at home as a side with your favorite grilled meat.  It is also a wonderful light lunch on it's own.  

Mediterranean Farro Salad (adapted from Giada DeLaurentiis)

10 oz. farro (about 1 1/2 cups)
2 t. salt, divided
8 oz. green beans, cut into 1 to 2" pieces 
1/2 c. pitted black olives
1 medium red pepper, cut into thin strips 
3 oz. grated Parmesan, 
1 small bunch chives, chopped
1/4 c. red wine vinegar vinegar
1/4 c. extra virgin olive oil
1 T. Dijon mustard
1 t. black pepper


Cook farro according to package directions with 1 1/2 t. salt.

Meanwhile, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the green beans and stir. Cook for 2 minutes. Transfer the cooked green beans to a bowl of ice water and let cool for 2 minutes. Drain the green beans.

Once the farro has cooled add the green beans, olives, red pepper, Parmesan, and chives. Stir to combine. In a small bowl mix together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, mustard, pepper, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir to combine. Pour the red wine vinaigrette over the farro salad. Toss to combine and serve.


Feel free to make this ahead and store it in the fridge until time to eat.

4 side dish servings (334 calories each serving) according to my calculator on loseit.com