As more people are taking an interest in a healthier diet, chefs are looking to traditional foods and flavors for inspiration. Ancient grains have new life as a hip food trend. While whole grains have been popular to a degree, they’ve also had an unexciting image – something you ate only because they are good for you.
So what is farro? It’s actually three types of ancient wheat. Farro never went out of style in Italy and renewed interest in authentic Italian cuisine is credited for farro’s increasing popularity. Farro is super healthy, even a bit more so than quinoa, with more calcium, zinc and vitamin b3. Farro’s subtle, nutty flavor has won a lot of new converts with wider exposure and chefs are drawn to its versatility.
Farro is a great addition to hot breakfast cereals, soups, salads, side dishes and even desserts. It’s an easy way to add great nutrition and a distinct flavor. In addition to being an additive, there are some great dishes that feature farro. The best known of these is farrotto, which is risotto with farro substituting for rice. Farro’s versatility even extends using milled farro as substitute for white flour.
We looked at Marzetti® Foodservice recipes and found lots of great places where you can substitute farro for rice, pasta or quinoa.
Confetti Rice Salad – This light side dish combines brown rice, dried cranberries, scallions, shredded carrots, celery, zucchini and Marzetti® Light Raspberry Dressing.
Curried Quinoa Salad – Freshly cooked Quinoa mixed with fresh chopped zucchini, red bell pepper, scallions, feta cheese, peas and Marzetti® Balsamic Vinaigrette with a touch of curry.
Ancient Grain Salad – Farro and quinoa team up for a powerful punch in this healthful salad, featuring Marzetti® Champagne Vinaigrette, tomatoes, red onion and parsley.
Champagne Arugula Salad – Add farro to taste to this savory salad, which also includes arugula, prosciutto, corn, tomatoes, avocado and Marzetti® Champagne Vinaigrette.
For more ideas for cooking with farro, check out this list of 10 Easy, Healthy Farro Recipes.
Now is a great time to look at your existing recipes and ask where you could integrate farro into your menu.
