Cherry Farro Salad with Sweet Vinaigrette

Cherry Farro Salad with Sweet Vinaigrette is a stunning, fresh, and wholesome dish that brings together the nutty chewiness of farro, the natural sweetness of ripe cherries, and the tangy brightness of a honey-balsamic vinaigrette.

This salad bursts with flavor and texture in every bite—soft and juicy fruit, crunchy toasted nuts, creamy cheese, and fragrant herbs, all wrapped up in a silky-sweet dressing.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a hearty vegetarian lunch, a side dish at your next summer barbecue, or a colorful component of a picnic spread, this salad checks all the boxes: nourishing, easy to make, visually beautiful, and absolutely delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

• Wholesome & Nutritious: Loaded with fiber, protein, and antioxidants.
• Seasonal & Vibrant: Highlights fresh summer cherries like no other dish.
• Quick to Make: Comes together in under 45 minutes with mostly hands-off time.
• Versatile & Customizable: Swap in grains, greens, or your favorite add-ins.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Tastes even better after it sits for a few hours.

Why This Salad Is a Must-Try Dish

1. Unique and Flavorful Combination

This dish combines nutty farro, sweet, juicy cherries, tangy vinaigrette, and creamy cheese in one perfect bite. It’s not your average salad — it surprises you with flavor depth, balance, and texture that keeps you coming back for more.

2. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer salad, a healthy lunch prep, or a colorful side dish for potlucks and BBQs, this recipe fits the bill. It’s as elegant as it is satisfying.

3. Packed with Nutrition

• Farro is rich in fiber, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
• Cherries are loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Combined with healthy fats from olive oil and optional heart-healthy nuts, it’s a meal that tastes good and feels good.

4. Visually Stunning

With deep red cherries, bright green herbs, golden grains, and white crumbles of feta, this salad looks as vibrant as it tastes. It instantly elevates any table — whether you’re feeding guests or yourself.

5. Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Friendly

The salad can be made in advance and keeps well, making it ideal for busy weeks, picnics, or entertaining. The flavors deepen as it sits, meaning it tastes even better the next day.

6. Highly Customizable

Vegetarian? Vegan? Gluten-free? This salad adapts easily. You can add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas, swap the grains, or omit the cheese — and it will still shine.

7. Seasonally Inspired

Using fresh cherries when they’re in season celebrates nature’s bounty. It’s a great way to make the most of summer produce in a creative, healthful way.

Preparation Time & Total Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes (to cook and cool the farro)
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Servings & Caloric Information

• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: Approximately 290–320 calories per serving (depending on cheese and nuts used)

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 cup farro (uncooked) or 2 ½ cups cooked
• 1 ½ cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• ¼ cup toasted pecans or slivered almonds
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint or parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Sweet Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Farro

1. Rinse farro under cold running water.
2. Add 1 cup farro and 3 cups water or broth to a medium saucepan. Add a pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 25–30 minutes until tender but chewy.
4. Drain any excess water. Spread on a tray or plate to cool quickly, or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
2. Whisk or shake vigorously until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Toast the Nuts

1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pecans or almonds for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled farro, cherries, red onion, toasted nuts, and fresh herbs.
2. If using, add feta cheese.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the mixture and gently toss to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Use as a main dish salad, or pair as a side with grilled chicken, fish, lamb, or tofu.
• Garnish with extra herbs or cheese for presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips & Variations

Tips

• Use pearled farro for faster cooking (20–25 minutes).
• Cool the farro completely before adding cherries to avoid softening or cooking them.
• Pit cherries using a cherry pitter or press them gently with a glass to remove the pit.

Variations

• Grain Swap: Use quinoa, couscous, or barley instead of farro.
• Fruit Swap: Replace cherries with dried cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or blueberries.
• Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese, Parmesan, or blue cheese.
• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or lentils for a complete meal.
• Greens Boost: Add arugula or baby spinach for freshness.

Freezing & Storage Info

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Best enjoyed fresh.
• Freezing: Not recommended. Cherries and herbs don’t thaw well and can become mushy.
• For meal prep, store vinaigrette separately and combine just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan (for cooking farro)
• Cherry pitter (optional but helpful)
• Mixing bowl
• Small whisk or jar with lid (for vinaigrette)
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad keeps well and tastes better after the flavors sit. Make up to 24 hours in advance.

Q2: What if I don’t have fresh cherries?

You can use frozen cherries (thawed and patted dry) or dried cherries (rehydrated in warm water for 10 minutes).

Q3: Is farro gluten-free?

No, farro contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use quinoa or wild rice.

Q4: Can I omit the cheese?

Absolutely. The cheese adds creaminess, but the salad is flavorful without it.

Q5: Can I use a store-bought vinaigrette?

Yes, but for best results, use one with balsamic or honey mustard flavors. Homemade is fresher and healthier.

Conclusion

Cherry Farro Salad with Sweet Vinaigrette is a fresh, colorful, and nourishing dish that will brighten your table and your palate. With its beautiful blend of chewy grains, juicy cherries, and a well-balanced vinaigrette, it’s a celebration of textures and seasonal flavors. It’s elegant enough for entertaining and simple enough for a weeknight meal. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, a holiday table, or healthy lunches, this salad is a must-try for anyone who loves real, flavorful food.