Name: Beets and Farro with Honey-Garlic Goat Cheese Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup semi-pearled farro (provides a delightful chew and a hearty base); 2 cups precooked beets (adds earthy sweetness and vibrant color); 1 cup fennel (offers a crisp texture and mild anise flavor); 4 oz. fresh goat cheese (adds creaminess and tangy notes to the dressing); 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt (provides a luscious base for the dressing); 1 clove garlic (infuses the dressing with robust flavor); 2 teaspoons honey (sweetens the dressing beautifully); 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (brightens the overall flavor); 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (adds richness to the dressing)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the vivid hues of freshly roasted beets caught my eye—an invitation to create something special. You won’t believe how effortlessly this Hearty Beets and Farro Salad with Honey-Garlic Goat Cheese comes together! Featuring the earthy sweetness of beets and the delightful chewiness of farro, this nutritious salad strikes a perfect balance between vibrant flavors and textures. It makes an excellent choice for a quick weeknight meal or a refreshing side dish that your friends and family will adore. Plus, using precooked beets allows you to assemble this dish in a flash, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your masterpiece. Ready to dive into a scrumptious experience that’s both simple and satisfying?

Why is this salad a must-try?

Vibrant colors: This salad bursts with the stunning hues of beets, making it not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Nutritious goodness: Packed with fiber and protein, the combination ensures you’re fueling your body with essential nutrients.

Quick and easy: With just a little prep time, you can have this gourmet dish ready to impress your guests or family in no time.

Versatile option: Perfect as a light main course or served as a side to grilled meats, it suits all occasions. Check out our Chickpea Salad with Grilled Vegetables for another fantastic veggie option!

Crowd-pleaser: The creamy honey-garlic dressing marries well with the earthy flavors of beets and farro, making it a hit at gatherings.

Beets and Farro Ingredients

• Discover the delightful components that make up this irresistible salad!

For the Salad

Semi-Pearled Farro – Provides a delightful chew and a hearty base; quicker to cook than whole farro.
Precooked Beets – Adds earthy sweetness and vibrant color; a huge time-saver that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Fennel – Offers a crisp texture and mild anise flavor; can be swapped for celery for a different crunch.

For the Dressing

Fresh Goat Cheese – Adds creaminess and tangy notes to the dressing; if you’re in the mood for alternatives, feta works beautifully too.
Plain Whole-Milk Yogurt – Provides a luscious base for the dressing; Greek yogurt can be used for a thicker consistency.
Garlic – Infuses the dressing with robust flavor and aroma; adjust according to your taste preference.
Honey – Sweetens the dressing beautifully, balancing the tangy goat cheese; feel free to substitute maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens the overall flavor with a tangy touch; red wine vinegar can offer an interesting flavor twist.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness to the dressing; avocado oil is a delightful alternative for a unique taste.

This refreshing salad with beets and farro with honey-garlic goat cheese captures the essence of simplicity and flavor, making it a great choice for anyone seeking a nutritious meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beets and Farro With Honey-Garlic Goat Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Farro
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of semi-pearled farro and cook for about 20 minutes, or until tender but still chewy. Drain the farro in a colander and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 grated garlic clove, 4 oz. of crumbled goat cheese, and 1 cup of plain whole-milk yogurt. Add 2 teaspoons of honey and blend until mostly smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and if you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to use a blender for a silky finish.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Base
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked farro, thinly sliced fennel, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Drizzle in extra-virgin olive oil while stirring gently to combine, ensuring all the components are coated. Season with salt and pepper, tasting along the way to ensure a balanced flavor base.

Step 4: Add the Beets
Just before serving, gently fold in the cut beets to the salad mixture. This helps to maintain the vibrant colors of the beets, preventing any color bleeding into the farro. Ensure even distribution while being cautious not to mash the beets, preserving their shape and texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad
To present your Hearty Beets and Farro Salad with Honey-Garlic Goat Cheese, spread a generous layer of the creamy dressing onto a platter. Then, mound the salad mixture on top, creating a visually appealing centerpiece. Garnish with reserved fennel fronds and a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper for an inviting finish.

How to Store and Freeze Beets and Farro With Honey-Garlic Goat Cheese

Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad remains fresh and tasty, particularly if you add the beets and dressing just before serving.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid keeping the salad at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for this salad, if you must, consider freezing the farro separately. It can last up to 3 months; however, the texture of the remaining ingredients will not hold up well once thawed.

Reheating: If you prefer your farro warm, reheat it in a small pot over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture but avoid reheating mixed salad to preserve crispness.

Make Ahead Options

These Beets and Farro with Honey-Garlic Goat Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the farro and prepare the honey-garlic dressing up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cooked farro will maintain its chewy texture, while the dressing remains creamy and flavorful. You can also chop the fennel and store it in a sealed container for up to 24 hours to save time. Just before serving, gently fold in the beets to prevent color bleeding and toss everything together. It’ll be just as delicious, giving you a beautiful and effortless meal that saves precious time during busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Beets and Farro

Choose Quality Farro: Use semi-pearled farro for quicker cooking time, ensuring it remains chewy and complements the dish’s texture beautifully.
Prepping Beets: For maximum flavor, consider roasting or steaming fresh beets if not using pre-cooked ones. This enhances their earthy sweetness.
Dressing Consistency: Blend the dressing ingredients for a creamier texture, which beautifully coats the salad and enhances the flavor profile of the beets and farro.
Gentle Mixing: When adding beets last, fold them in gently to avoid color bleeding and keep your salad looking vibrant and appetizing.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the dressing with garlic or honey based on your taste, ensuring that the honey-garlic goat cheese flavor shines through.
Garnishing Tips: Reserve fennel fronds for garnishing; they provide a refreshing touch on top and enhance the visual appeal of your salad.

Beets and Farro With Honey-Garlic Goat Cheese Variations

Ready to add your personal touch to this delightful salad? Let your creativity shine as you explore these exciting twists!

Nutty Crunch: Add roasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds for an unexpected crunch that enhances the texture.
Leafy Greens: Toss in a handful of arugula or spinach for a vibrant pop of green and extra nutrients.
Creamy Swap: Substitute goat cheese with creamy feta for a tangy twist; or try the lovely creaminess of ricotta.
Sweet Boost: Incorporate dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness and color that complements the beets beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing for those who enjoy a little heat in their dishes.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or basil to infuse a refreshing flavor that brightens up the salad.
Citrusy Zest: Add a splash of lemon juice to the dressing for a zesty kick that lifts the flavors to new heights.
Grilled Goodness: Top the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal; or try our Lime Salmon Avocado for another delicious protein option.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a salad that delights your taste buds! Each variation offers a unique experience that makes this salad a versatile delight, whether enjoyed as a meal or a side.

What to Serve with Hearty Beets and Farro Salad with Honey-Garlic Goat Cheese

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this colorful salad with complementary dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors.

Grilled Lemon Chicken: Juicy and zesty, it adds a satisfying protein contrast that harmonizes beautifully with the earthy notes of the salad.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Their crunchy exterior and fluffy interior provide a delightful texture contrast, creating a heartwarming comfort food pairing.
Steamed Asparagus: A fresh and tender option, it adds a touch of elegance while its mild flavor won’t overshadow the vibrancy of the beets.
Arugula Salad with Parmesan: A peppery side salad brings a refreshing balance to the creamy goat cheese dressing, inviting every bite to dance with flavor.
Sourdough Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover dressing and adding a rustic touch, this bread complements the meal with its tangy depth.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the salad’s freshness while providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of goat cheese.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a light and airy mousse that balances the meal’s savory elements with a sweet, luxurious finish.

Allow these pairings to elevate your menu and create a memorable meal centered around the hearty beets and farro with honey-garlic goat cheese!

Beets and Farro with Honey-Garlic Goat Cheese Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best beets for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for firm, smooth beets with vibrant color and no dark spots all over, as these indicate freshness. Precooked beets are a great time-saver, but if you prefer fresh, roasting or steaming them will enhance their natural sweetness significantly.

How should I store the leftover salad?
You can store your leftover Hearty Beets and Farro Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best flavors, add the beets and dressing right before serving. This keeps everything fresh and prevents any texture compromises.

Can I freeze this salad?
Very! While freezing the whole salad isn’t recommended due to texture changes in the beets and dressing, you can freeze cooked farro separately. Place it in an airtight container and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat it for a warm touch!

What should I do if the farro is too chewy?
If you find your farro on the chewy side, don’t worry! Next time, soak it in water for 30 minutes before cooking; this short soak can help soften the grains and ensure a consistently tender yet firm texture. You can also simmer it for an extra 5 minutes in boiling water.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This salad is vegetarian-friendly, but if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, consider using a dairy-free yogurt for the dressing or substituting the goat cheese with a nut-based cheese for a vegan version. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they align with your dietary needs.