Save to Pinterest A hearty, wholesome dish featuring caramelized roasted broccoli tossed with zesty garlic-lemon dressing, served atop a nutty farro base. Perfect as a main or side.
This recipe quickly became a favorite for busy weeknights. The tangy dressing and texture contrast between chewy farro and crispy broccoli make every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
- Broccoli: 1 large head, cut into florets (about 500 g)
- Red onion: 1 medium, cut into thin wedges
- Farro: 1 cup (190 g), rinsed
- Water or vegetable broth: 2 1/2 cups (600 ml)
- Olive oil: 3 tbsp, divided
- Garlic: 3 large cloves, minced
- Lemon: Zest and juice of 1 large
- Honey or maple syrup: 1 tsp
- Chili flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp, plus more to taste
- Black pepper: Freshly ground, to taste
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds: 2 tbsp (optional)
- Crumbled feta cheese: 30 g (about 1/4 cup, optional, omit for vegan)
Instructions
- Prepare oven:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast veggies:
- Toss broccoli florets and onion wedges with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the broccoli is golden and edges are crisp.
- Cook farro:
- In a saucepan, add farro and water or broth. Boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until tender. Drain excess liquid.
- Make dressing:
- While farro cooks, heat remaining olive oil in a skillet. Sauté garlic 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat. Stir in lemon zest, juice, honey or maple syrup, and chili flakes.
- Serve farro:
- Fluff cooked farro with a fork and season with a pinch of salt. Spread onto platter or bowls.
- Assemble:
- Top farro with roasted veggies and drizzle with garlic-lemon dressing.
- Garnish & serve:
- Sprinkle with parsley, nuts, and feta if desired. Serve warm.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this dish at our table always sparks happy chatter, especially as everyone builds their own bowl with favorite toppings.
Required Tools
You will need a baking sheet, saucepan with lid, small skillet, mixing bowls, a chefs knife, cutting board, and a fine grater for best results.
Allergen Information
If sensitive to gluten, swap farro for brown rice or quinoa. Omit nuts or cheese as needed to suit dietary requirements.
Nutritional Information
Each serving, with feta and nuts, provides about 340 calories, 13 g fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 9 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy every wholesome bite and feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins. This recipe makes nourishing meals easy and delicious.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve caramelized broccoli?
Roast broccoli florets at a high temperature (425°F) with olive oil and seasoning until edges turn golden and crisp, about 20–25 minutes.
- → Can I substitute farro with other grains?
Yes, quinoa or brown rice work well as gluten-free alternatives while maintaining a chewy, nutty texture.
- → How is the garlic-lemon dressing prepared?
Sauté minced garlic briefly in olive oil until fragrant, then mix with lemon zest, juice, honey or maple syrup, and optional chili flakes.
- → What nut options can be used for garnish?
Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add crunch and complement the dish’s flavor profile.
- → Is there a vegan version of this dish?
Omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to preserve textures and flavors.