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Winter Tuscan Kale Salad Recipe

Warm Farro Salad with Winter Tuscan Kale


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  • Author: Jackie Johnson
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Hearty lacinato kale is the base for this supremely easy salad. The mild lettuce is simply torn and tossed with fiber-rich farro, smooth avocado and tart green apple, plus some fresh feta cheese. Mix in equal parts lemon juice and olive oil for a quick dressing and serve—or add a grilled chicken breast on top for a protein boost. 


Ingredients

Units Scale

2 bunches lacinato kale (Tuscan kale), cleaned and trimmed

1 cup farro

1 green apple, cored and diced

1 avocado, sliced

12 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Sea salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

5 oz grilled chicken, optional


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
  • Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Kale

  • Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, removing the tough stems.
  • Wash and dry thoroughly, then place in a large salad bowl.

Step 3: Prep the Apple and Avocado

  • Dice the green apple into small bite-sized pieces.
  • Slice the avocado thinly.
  • Add both to the bowl with the kale.

Step 4: Cook the Farro

  • Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
  • Stir in the farro, reduce heat, and let simmer for 30–40 minutes, until the grains are tender but chewy.
  • Drain any excess water and allow the farro to cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

  • Add the warm farro to the salad bowl.
  • Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.

Step 6: Add the Dressing & Toss

  • Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  • Taste and add more dressing if needed.
  • Sprinkle with sea salt and additional black pepper if desired.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  • Divide into four bowls and serve immediately.
  • Optional: Top with grilled chicken for extra protein.

Notes

Kale Massage Hack: If your kale is too tough, massage it with a little olive oil and lemon juice before mixing. This will soften the leaves.

Farro Alternatives: Substitute quinoa, bulgur, or brown rice if farro isn’t available.

Serving Temperature: The warmth of the farro slightly wilts the kale, enhancing flavor and texture.

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for extra protein.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 250g
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg