If you’re searching for a salad that combines hearty, wholesome grains with fresh, crisp fruit and a touch of sweet tang, this Farro & Apple Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. Bursting with texture and flavor, it effortlessly blends nutty farro with crunchy apples, crunchy nuts, luscious greens, and a dreamy maple Dijon vinaigrette. Each bite feels like a perfect harmony of cozy autumn flavors and vibrancy, making it an ideal dish for lunch, a light dinner, or even as a colorful side. Trust me, once you try this Farro & Apple Salad Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to salads for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl filled with a salad made of chopped light green and pale yellow ingredients, likely a mix of lettuce and apples, with small bits of nuts scattered throughout. To the right of the bowl, there is a whole red apple with a shiny surface. Below the bowl on the white marbled surface, there is a small pile of chopped nuts and a small lettuce leaf. The overall setting is bright and clean. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients can often create the most memorable dishes, and that’s exactly the case with this salad. Every component here plays a crucial role, whether it’s texture, flavor, or color, coming together to make a salad that’s fresh yet filling, crunchy yet smooth.

2 cups cooked farro: The grain base; chewy and nutty, it adds heartiness and a lovely texture.
1 apple, diced: Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for a sweet and tart crunch.
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Add earthy crunch and rich depth to every bite.
¼ cup dried cranberries: Bring a juicy pop of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements.
2 cups mixed greens or spinach: Fresh, vibrant, and leafy, these greens brighten the salad and add a fresh bite.
Optional: goat cheese or feta: Creamy and tangy, it turns the salad into a luscious experience.
2 tablespoons olive oil: The base of the dressing that smooths everything together.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Gives the dressing a crisp, zesty kick.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds subtle sharpness and depth to the vinaigrette.
1 teaspoon maple syrup: Sweetens the dressing with a natural, cozy touch.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into perfect balance.

How to Make Farro & Apple Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the base ingredients

Start by cooking your farro according to package instructions if you haven’t done so already. Once it’s tender but still chewy, drain and let it cool. Meanwhile, dice the apple into bite-sized cubes to ensure every forkful delivers a burst of freshness and crunch. Chop the nuts roughly to maintain some big pieces for texture, and measure out the cranberries and greens.

Step 2: Combine the salad elements

In a large bowl, gently toss together the cooked farro, diced apples, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and fresh mixed greens or spinach. This is where the vibrant colors and textures start coming together beautifully, making your salad already look like something special.

Step 3: Whisk the maple Dijon vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, blend the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and perfectly emulsified. This dressing is the magic touch that compliments the nuttiness of the farro and the sweetness of the apple.

Step 4: Dress and toss the salad

Pour the maple Dijon vinaigrette over the salad mixture, then toss gently but thoroughly. You want every grain, apple cube, and leaf to be lightly coated without becoming soggy. This ensures the salad remains fresh and bright in every bite.

Step 5: Add the optional creamy cheese

If you’re using goat cheese or feta, crumble it on top now and give the salad one last gentle toss. The creamy tang of the cheese adds an irresistible dimension that elevates this Farro & Apple Salad Recipe to a whole new flavor level.

How to Serve Farro & Apple Salad Recipe

A black skillet filled with a cooked mixture mainly made of small, round grains that are light tan in color, mixed with green leafy pieces scattered throughout, some of which are wilted and some still fresh and bright green. Among the grains and greens, there are browned chunks that look like cooked meat or sausage, adding texture and color contrast. The skillet sits on a gas stove with a few crumbs and bits around the burner. To the right of the skillet, there is a white container of iodized salt, and behind the skillet, an open cookbook with visible text and recipe instructions is propped up on the stove. The overall scene is set on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Farro & Apple Salad Recipe shine even more, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. A dash of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of a little extra maple syrup can also personalize the flavors perfectly, giving each serving a little extra wow factor.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a balanced meal, or pair with roasted vegetables for a colorful vegetarian feast. It also makes a fantastic addition to any picnic or potluck thanks to its balanced flavors and portability.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fresh take, serve this salad layered in clear glass jars for an inviting presentation. Alternatively, stuff it inside halved avocados or roasted bell peppers for a fun, colorful twist that’s impressive on any table. No matter how you present it, this salad always looks vibrant and appetizing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any remaining Farro & Apple Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the salad’s crispness, or add a little fresh apple dice to refresh the texture before serving again.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad because the fresh greens and apples lose their texture upon thawing. The farro itself can be frozen separately, but for the best experience, enjoy the salad fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

If you prefer a warm version, gently reheat the farro before mixing it with the other ingredients and dressing. The salad really shines both warm or chilled, so experiment to find your favorite way to enjoy it.

FAQs

Can I use another grain instead of farro?

Absolutely! Barley or quinoa are excellent substitutes if you want to switch things up, though farro’s nutty flavor is what makes this salad especially delightful.

What type of apples work best for this salad?

Choose crisp and slightly tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Fuji. They hold up well and balance the creamy and nutty flavors perfectly.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, just omit the goat cheese or feta, and you have a vegan-friendly salad that still tastes incredible.

Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?

You can cook the farro and chop the nuts and apples ahead of time. Store everything separately to keep the salad fresh when you’re ready to toss it all together.

How long does the dressing keep?

The maple Dijon vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Final Thoughts

This Farro & Apple Salad Recipe is the perfect blend of hearty and refreshing, sweet and savory, crunchy and creamy all in one bowl. It’s such a joy to make and share, especially when you want something healthy yet satisfying without fuss. I hope you find as much pleasure in making and eating this salad as I do, and that it becomes a regular on your table to brighten your meals any time of the year.