Butternut Farro Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

Vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed blood orange juice
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• teaspoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Salad:

• 1 cup water
• cup pearled farro
• 2 cups cubed butternut squash (-inch cubes)
• 1 cup chopped red onion (-inch pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons toasted pecans
• 3 tablespoons dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400F (200C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the blood orange juice, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk until well combined. Set the vinaigrette aside.

Step 3: In a small saucepan, combine the water, farro, and salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Set the cooked farro aside to cool.

Step 4: While the farro cooks, prepare the vegetables. In a bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash, chopped red onion, olive oil, minced garlic, and salt until evenly coated.

Step 5: Spread the squash and onion mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through for even roasting.

Step 6: Once the squash and onions are roasted, transfer the cooled farro to a large bowl. Add the roasted vegetables, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and chopped parsley.

Step 7: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.

Step 8: Refrigerate the salad for 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cook's Note: If blood oranges are unavailable, regular orange juice can be used as a substitute.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 271
• Total Fat: 15g (19% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (9% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 330mg (14% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 35g (13% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 4g (9% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 24mg (26% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 60mg (5% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (11% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 448mg (10% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The combination of roasted butternut squash, farro, pecans, and cranberries in this salad reflects a growing trend toward healthy, nutrient-dense meals. Farro, an ancient grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture, has been consumed for thousands of years, with its roots dating back to the Fertile Crescent. Its use in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern diets is well documented, and today it is celebrated for its high fiber and protein content. The addition of blood orange vinaigrette adds a unique citrus twist, with the deep, rich flavor of blood oranges providing a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of the salad. This dish represents a modern take on traditional ingredients with a twist of contemporary flavor.

Regional Characteristics

The use of farro, butternut squash, and pecans places this dish firmly within the North American culinary tradition. Farro is commonly used in Mediterranean diets, but its introduction into modern American cooking has brought it into salads, soups, and risottos. The inclusion of roasted butternut squash, which is often featured in fall and winter dishes, brings a touch of warmth and seasonal flair. The blood orange vinaigrette adds a regional signature to the recipe, especially popular in California and Florida, where blood oranges are grown. This vibrant vinaigrette serves as a perfect complement to the earthy tones of the farro and the sweetness of the squash.

Distinguishing Features from Similar Dishes

What sets this salad apart from similar dishes is the unique pairing of blood orange vinaigrette with the nutty farro and roasted butternut squash. While farro is often found in Mediterranean salads, the blood orange vinaigrette introduces a distinctly American twist. This is not just another grain salad; the roasted squash and the contrast between the tart vinaigrette and the sweetness of the cranberries make for a more dynamic flavor profile. Compared to other grain salads, such as quinoa or couscous-based salads, farro offers a heartier, chewier texture that enhances the salad's substance. The inclusion of both fresh parsley and toasted pecans provides an additional layer of complexity and texture, something often overlooked in simpler grain salads.

Where It Is Typically Served

This salad is typically served as a light main course or side dish. It is ideal for a lunch or dinner, particularly in the fall or winter months when butternut squash is in season. Due to its vibrant colors and balance of flavors, it is often a popular choice for festive gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals. Its healthy profile and nutrient-dense ingredients make it an excellent addition to any vegetarian or vegan meal plan, and it pairs well with roasted meats or grilled fish. It is also frequently found on the menus of trendy health-conscious restaurants and cafes.

Interesting Facts

Blood oranges, known for their distinctive reddish flesh, are packed with anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant that provides health benefits, including reducing inflammation and boosting immunity. They are a variety of orange typically grown in regions with cooler winters, such as Italy and parts of California. Farro, on the other hand, has been a staple of Italian cuisine for centuries, often used in soups, salads, and even risottos. Its popularity in modern cooking can be attributed to its versatility and nutritional profile. Combining these two ingredients into a single dish not only highlights their individual flavors but also brings out a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements, making this salad a delicious and healthful choice.

FAQ about Butternut Farro Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette Recipe

Comments