Description
A vibrant and nutritious grain bowl featuring cooked farro, fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and a tangy tahini-lemon dressing. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or light dinner, this recipe combines simple, fresh ingredients with a flavorful dressing that can be made ahead and stored for multiple servings.
Ingredients
Scale
Grain Bowl
- 1/2 cup cooked farro
- 1/3 cup diced cucumber
- 1/3 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/3 cup chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 of 1 large ripe avocado (diced)
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion (optional)
- 1 tablespoon feta cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for serving)
Dressing
- 1 large lemon (zested and juiced; 1 teaspoon zest, 3 tablespoons juice)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Zest the lemon to collect 1 teaspoon of zest and then juice it to gather 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Into a wide-mouth jar, combine the lemon zest and juice with garlic powder, tahini, maple syrup, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified and smooth. Taste the dressing and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Store in the refrigerator and shake well before each use.
- Assemble the Grain Bowl: In a large bowl or plate, layer the cooked farro as the base. Evenly distribute the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed chickpeas, diced avocado, finely diced red onion (if using), and sprinkle the feta cheese on top. Drizzle the prepared tahini-lemon dressing generously over the assembled ingredients. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges on the side for added brightness. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, wholesome bowl.
Notes
- The dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days; just shake well before using.
- Feel free to swap farro with other grains like quinoa, brown rice, or barley to suit your preference.
- Tahini adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor; ensure it is well mixed into the dressing to avoid clumps.
- If you prefer a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Adding fresh herbs such as parsley enhances the freshness and adds a pop of color.
