In a world where vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients reign supreme, the humble farro, an ancient grain celebrated for its nutty chew-takes center stage in a salad that’s as comforting as it is colorful. Enter the Wholesome Farro & Roasted Carrot Salad with Dairy-Free Cheese: a delightful harmony of tender, caramelized carrots, hearty farro, and creamy, plant-based cheese that together create a symphony of textures and tastes. Whether you’re embracing a dairy-free lifestyle or simply seeking a fresh, wholesome dish to brighten your plate, this salad promises a satisfying, nutrient-packed experience that elevates everyday eating into something truly special.
Wholesome Farro & Roasted Carrot Salad with Dairy-Free Cheese
Wholesome Farro & Roasted Carrot Salad with Dairy-Free cheese brings together nutty grains, caramelized sweetness, and creamy, tangy dairy-free cheese in a vibrant, nourishing bowl. This dish is a celebration of texture and flavor, inspired by rustic Mediterranean traditions but fully embracing modern dietary preferences. Whether you’re seeking a hearty lunch, a festive side, or a wholesome main, this salad offers an uplifting, balanced experience that’s deeply satisfying and visually stunning.
Prep and Cook Time
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 35 minutes | Total: 50 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Difficulty Level
Easy
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro, rinsed
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick sticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp sea salt, divided
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 3/4 cup dairy-free shredded mozzarella cheese (recommended: cashew-based or coconut oil-based for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the farro: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed farro with 2 1/2 cups water and 1/2 tsp sea salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered until tender but chewy, about 25-30 minutes. Drain any excess water and fluff with a fork. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven: Set to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the carrots: In a bowl, toss the carrot sticks with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- Roast the carrots: Place in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they develop a deep golden hue and edges become caramelized and tender. This process unlocks their natural sugars, offering a sweet, almost buttery depth of flavor.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, lemon juice, maple syrup, and 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt.
- Combine the salad: In a large mixing bowl, fold the cooked farro, roasted carrots, toasted walnuts, chopped parsley, and dairy-free shredded cheese. Drizzle the dressing over and gently toss to combine all elements, ensuring each bite delivers a balance of creaminess, crunch, and zest.
- Final touch: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary-more lemon juice will brighten the dish, while a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate the texture contrast.
- Serve promptly for warm goodness, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enjoy it as a refreshing chilled salad.
Chef’s Notes
- Choosing dairy-free cheese: For creaminess close to conventional mozzarella, opt for cashew-based or coconut oil-based shredded cheeses labeled as meltable. Brands like Miyoko’s or Follow Your Heart offer excellent texture and flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Farro tips: Pearled farro cooks faster and produces a softer texture. For a nuttier bite, unpearled farro is preferable but requires longer cooking.
- Make ahead: Cook farro and roast carrots up to 24 hours in advance. Store separately to maintain texture and combine with cheese and dressing just before serving.
- Add-ins: Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and tartness or include fresh herbs like mint or basil for extra brightness.
- For extra protein: Toss in grilled chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein.
Serving Suggestions
This wholesome farro & roasted carrot salad with dairy-free cheese shines as a colorful centerpiece or a nourishing side. Serve it on rustic stoneware to highlight its vibrant oranges and greens. Garnish with a few whole parsley leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for a glistening finish. Pair with crusty whole-grain bread or alongside grilled vegetable skewers for a complete, balanced meal. Perfect for warm-weather picnics or cozy dinners, inviting comfort and wholesomeness on the plate.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
For more hearty salads featuring ancient grains, check out our Quinoa & Arugula Salad with Roasted Beets. To understand farro’s health benefits in greater depth, visit Healthline’s detailed guide on farro.
Q&A
Q&A: Wholesome Farro & Roasted Carrot Salad with Dairy-Free Cheese
Q: What makes farro a great base for this salad?
A: Farro is an ancient whole grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture that adds heartiness to any dish. It’s packed with fiber, protein, and essential minerals, making it a nourishing foundation for our wholesome salad-plus, it holds up beautifully against the juicy roasted carrots and creamy dairy-free cheese.
Q: Why choose roasted carrots for the salad? Can’t I just use raw?
A: Roasting carrots caramelizes their natural sugars, transforming them into sweet, tender bites bursting with depth and warmth. Raw carrots bring crunch and freshness, but roasting elevates the flavor profile, creating a cozy contrast with farro’s chew and the cheese’s creaminess.
Q: How does dairy-free cheese contribute to the overall dish?
A: Dairy-free cheese adds a luscious, creamy element without overpowering the other ingredients. Whether it’s a nut-based cheese or a cultured coconut option, it enhances the salad’s texture and adds subtle tanginess, keeping the dish vibrant and allergy-pleasant.
Q: Is this salad suitable for all diets?
A: Absolutely! It’s naturally plant-based, gluten-friendly if you opt for gluten-free farro alternatives like sorghum or quinoa, and free from dairy. This makes it perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and those with lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivities.
Q: Can I prepare the farro and carrots ahead of time?
A: Yes! Cooking farro in advance and roasting your carrots earlier in the day or the night before is a smart time-saver. Store them in airtight containers and toss everything together just before serving to keep the salad fresh and lively.
Q: What herbs or add-ins work well with this salad?
A: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill add brightness. Toasted nuts or seeds lend crunch, and a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavors. Feel free to customize based on what your pantry or garden offers!
Q: How should I serve this salad?
A: This salad shines as a wholesome lunch, a side dish for grilled veggies or proteins, or even a light dinner. Serve it slightly warm to highlight the roasted carrots’ aroma or chilled for a refreshing midday meal-either way, it’s a comforting bowl of goodness.
In Retrospect
In the world of vibrant, nourishing meals, this Wholesome Farro & Roasted Carrot Salad with Dairy-Free Cheese stands out as a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. It’s a celebration of hearty grains, naturally sweet roasted carrots, and the creamy tang of plant-based cheese coming together to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome. Whether you’re seeking a fresh lunch, a comforting side, or a nutrient-packed meal, this salad offers a deliciously simple way to nurture your body and delight your taste buds. So next time you’re craving something both healthy and indulgent, remember: sometimes, the most nourishing dishes are those crafted with a little love, a few staple ingredients, and a touch of creativity.
