If you are searching for a bright, hearty salad that will awaken your taste buds and keep you feeling nourished through chilly days, this Citrus Winter Farro Salad Recipe is simply irresistible. Combining the nutty chew of farro with juicy segments of oranges and grapefruit, crisp greens, and crunchy pistachios, all enveloped in a lively citrus vinaigrette, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that celebrate winter’s best produce. This dish is as vibrant as it is wholesome, making it a go-to for lunches, light dinners, or stunning side dishes during the colder months.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A tray holds many ingredients for cooking, placed neatly on a white marbled surface. At the bottom, there is a clear glass bowl filled with green arugula leaves. Above that, a smaller clear bowl is full of pecan nuts. Next to it, a ball of reddish-purple radicchio leaves rests on the tray. To the right, there are two small orange pumpkins and another small round orange item. In small glass bowls arranged near the top left, there are finely chopped shallots, creamy chopped nuts, honey, olive oil, orange juice, and a small amount of turmeric powder. A packet of blue and white cream cheese is placed near the middle. A piece of peeled garlic lies on the top right corner next to the pumpkins. All items show clear, natural colors and textures with soft light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind the Citrus Winter Farro Salad Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtful ingredients. Each element adds something special — from the nutty farro providing substance, to the citrus fruits giving tang and brightness, to the nuts adding crunch and depth.

1 cup uncooked farro: The chewy, nutty grain that forms the hearty base of the salad.
3 cups arugula or mixed greens: Fresh greens that add a peppery note and vibrant color.
2 oranges, segmented or sliced: Sweet, juicy bursts to lift the salad with their citrus charm.
1 grapefruit, segmented (optional): Adds an extra layer of tartness and complexity.
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced: Sharpness and crunch that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
¼ cup pistachios or almonds, toasted: Crunch and a rich, buttery flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional): A creamy tang that brings richness and binds the flavors together.
2 tbsp olive oil: A smooth, fruity base for the dressing.
2 tbsp fresh orange juice: Natural sweetness for an authentic citrus vinaigrette.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the dressing.
1 tsp honey or maple syrup: A touch of sweetness to round out the tangy dressing.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all flavors to life.

How to Make Citrus Winter Farro Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Farro

Start by cooking the farro according to the package instructions until it’s tender but still chewy. This grain is the heart of the salad, providing a substantial, nutty texture that stands up beautifully to the freshness of the citrus and greens. Once cooked, drain and let it cool slightly so it blends well with the other ingredients without wilting the greens.

Step 2: Prepare the Citrus and Vegetables

While the farro cools, segment the oranges and grapefruit, removing all the bitter white pith for a clean burst of juicy sweetness. Thinly slice the red onion to add a sharp bite that contrasts perfectly with the fruit. The fresh greens can be gently washed and spun dry to keep them crisp and ready to mix.

Step 3: Whisk the Citrus Vinaigrette

Combine olive oil, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and a bit of honey or maple syrup in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and emulsified. This dressing is what brightens the entire salad, tying together the leafy greens, nutty grain, and sweet-tart citrus with a luscious zing.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled farro, greens, citrus segments, and red onion. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss lightly to ensure every bite has some of that zesty dressing. Lastly, sprinkle with toasted pistachios and crumbled cheese, if you’re using it, for a final flourish of texture and flavor.

How to Serve Citrus Winter Farro Salad Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a colorful salad in a white bowl set on a white marbled surface. The salad has several layers: the base is a mix of green lettuce leaves with light and dark green shades and a few leafy textures. Scattered on top are slices of avocado with smooth, pale green flesh and some pieces of pear with pale yellowish skin and white inside. There are several cooked barley grains spread evenly with a slightly shiny, soft texture and a pale beige color. Small pieces of mushroom with a smooth brown cap and white stalks are mixed throughout. Some black pepper is sprinkled in small dots on the surface. A woman's hand is reaching toward the salad on the left side. The overall texture looks fresh and crisp, with a mix of soft and firm ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your serving by adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or parsley, which complement the citrus notes beautifully. A few extra toasted nuts on top bring that irresistible crunch. For a little extra creaminess, slices of ripe avocado can be nestled right into the salad.

Side Dishes

This salad is fantastic as a stand-alone light meal, but if you want to turn it into a more filling experience, pairing it with grilled chicken or salmon adds protein and makes it into a complete entrée. It also pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread or a simple soup, balancing the fresh and tangy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, serve the Citrus Winter Farro Salad Recipe in a large white bowl or on a rustic wooden platter to highlight its colorful citrus and greens. Layering ingredients so the vibrant segments of oranges and grapefruit peek through makes for a visually stunning presentation. Individual portions served in small mason jars or clear bowls allow everyone to appreciate the salad’s beautiful layers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Citrus Winter Farro Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh and crisp, it’s best to keep the vinaigrette separate and toss just before serving.

Freezing

This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh greens and citrus segments, which lose their texture and flavor when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored briefly in the fridge.

Reheating

If you prefer your farro warm, you can reheat the cooked grain on its own before assembling the salad. However, the citrus, greens, and dressing should be added after reheating to maintain their freshness and crunch.

FAQs

Can I use other grains instead of farro?

Absolutely! If you want a gluten-free alternative, quinoa works beautifully in this salad. Just cook it as you would the farro and proceed with assembling the salad as usual.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Yes, to make it vegan, simply omit the cheese or swap it with a vegan cheese alternative. The honey in the dressing can be replaced with maple syrup to keep the salad entirely plant-based.

How do I keep the citrus segments from getting mushy?

Segment citrus fruits carefully by cutting away the peel and pith before slicing out the segments with a small knife. Use them fresh and add them to the salad just before serving to keep their texture vibrant and juicy.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time—cook the farro, segment the citrus, and make the dressing separately. Store everything in the fridge and toss it all together just before serving for the freshest experience.

What proteins pair best with this salad?

Grilled chicken breast, salmon, or even roasted chickpeas are all excellent protein choices to complement the flavors and make the salad more substantial.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this Citrus Winter Farro Salad Recipe enough for anyone craving something fresh, nourishing, and full of vibrant winter flavors. It’s a nourishing bowl that feels special but is easy enough to whip up any day of the week. Give it a try and watch how this simple combination of ingredients becomes your new favorite way to brighten up the colder months!

Citrus Winter Farro Salad Recipe