Farro Salad

The farro is lightly seasoned with chicken broth and is slightly creamy.

Several years ago I was lucky to have lunch at a delicious Italian restaurant in downtown Palo Alto which, sadly, is no longer in business.  This salad was on the menu and I have never forgotten it.  The original salad was served over tender mache, but any fresh soft lettuces will do.  The above mix features a variety of heirloom leaves.  Vibrant tomatoes add a wonderful contrast to the soft farro.

Serves:  4
Prep and cook time:  30 minutes

1 cup water, plus extra if needed
1/2 teaspoon chicken broth paste
1/3 cup farro
Lettuces
Vinaigrette - two parts extra virgin olive oil, one part vinegar, salt and pepper to taste (adjust amounts as needed per your preference).
Tomatoes

Thank you Costco for providing this otherwise expensive grain.

Mix together the chicken broth paste and water and bring to a boil.  Add the farro and cook according to package directions, stirring often, about 20 minutes or until farro is tender.  Add more water to keep the farro moist if needed.

I prefer this brand to old-fashioned boullion cubes becuase it doesn't contain MSG and has reduced sodium.

Prepare a light vinaigrette.  Place washed lettuces on a plate.  Add farro to the salad and put tomatoes around the farro.  Drizzle with vainaigrette and serve.

The salad offers around 215 calories, over 6 g protein, almost a full daily dose of manganese, and about 170 mg potassium.

- Kim Fielding