As autumn’s golden light spills across fields and forests, our palates begin too crave the comforting flavors of the harvest season.enter “Harvest Harmony: Farro & Roasted Squash Salad with Sage”-a celebration of nature’s bounty, where nutty farro meets tender, caramelized squash, all elevated by the earthy warmth of fresh sage. This vibrant salad not only captures the essence of fall in every bite but also marries wholesome grains and roasted vegetables into a dish that is as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed as a hearty side or a standalone meal, this salad invites you to savor the simple elegance of seasonal ingredients in perfect harmony.
Harvest Harmony: Farro & Roasted Squash Salad with Sage
Farro & roasted squash salad with sage brings together hearty ancient grains and the rich sweetness of autumn squash, creating a bowl packed with vibrant textures and layers of flavor. This dish celebrates the nourishing qualities of farro – a nutritious grain that’s as delicious as it is versatile – paired with the golden caramelization of slow-roasted squash and the aromatic freshness of sage. Whether you’re seeking a wholesome weeknight meal or a festive side,this harmonious blend offers both comfort and sophistication.
Prep and Cook Time
- Readiness: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
yield
Serves 4 generously as a main dish or 6 as a side salad.
Difficulty Level
Medium – ideal for home cooks comfortable with roasting and grain preparation.
ingredients
- 1 cup pearled farro, rinsed and drained
- 3 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth (for cooking farro)
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 3 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, cored and diced (preferably crisp variety like Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper on a rimmed baking sheet. spread evenly to ensure single-layer roasting.
- Roast the squash for 35-40 minutes,</b allowing it to turn golden and tender. Flip halfway through to promote even caramelization,unlocking its deep,sweet flavors.
- While the squash roasts, cook the farro.</b In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add rinsed farro and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until tender but chewy. Drain excess liquid if necessary and set aside to cool slightly.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.</b Add the fresh sage leaves and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until crisp and fragrant. Remove the sage leaves, letting them drain on paper towels, reserving the sage-infused oil.
- In a large mixing bowl,combine the warm farro,roasted squash,thinly sliced red onion,diced apple,and toasted walnuts.</b Drizzle the sage olive oil over the salad along with fresh lemon juice and maple syrup. Toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.</b If desired, fold in crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy element that balances the salad’s natural sweetness.
- Top the salad with the crispy sage leaves just before serving</b to add an herbal crunch and aroma sensation.
Chef’s Notes
- Farro Variations: Use whole or semi-pearled farro depending on your preferred chewiness; cooking times will vary – whole takes longer.
- Squash Substitutions: Acorn or delicata squash work wonderfully too, just adjust roasting time to tenderness.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the roasted squash and cooked farro a day ahead. Store separately in airtight containers and combine just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace walnuts with roasted pepitas or omit entirely for allergy-friendly version.
- Herb Enhancements: Try fresh thyme or rosemary alongside sage for a seasonal herb twist.
- Roasting Tip: Ensure squash cubes are spread out on the pan without overlapping to get that coveted golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
This farro and roasted squash salad shines best at room temperature, allowing the complex flavors to fully open. Serve it in rustic wooden bowls garnished with extra crispy sage leaves and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper.
Pair alongside crusty artisan bread or a simple roasted chicken breast for a complete and balanced autumn meal. For a vibrant party platter, offer the salad in a large communal bowl topped with microgreens and edible flowers to heighten the sensory appeal.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 350 kcal | 9 g | 50 g | 12 g |
Discover more wholesome grain salad recipes to keep your harvest feasts inspired and vibrant.For an expert dive into farro’s benefits, visit Healthline’s Farro Nutrition Guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Discovering the Delight of Harvest Harmony: Farro & Roasted Squash Salad with sage
Q: What inspired the creation of the Harvest Harmony: Farro & Roasted Squash Salad with Sage?
A: This salad was born from the desire to celebrate the vibrant flavors and textures of autumn’s harvest. Combining nutty farro with the sweet earthiness of roasted squash and the aromatic warmth of fresh sage creates a dish that feels both wholesome and comforting-like a cozy walk through a crisp fall forest.
Q: Why choose farro as the grain for this salad?
A: Farro is a fantastic ancient grain prized for its chewy texture and slightly nutty taste. It adds a hearty foundation that holds up beautifully against tender squash cubes and fresh herbs. Plus, farro is packed with fiber and nutrients, making the salad as nourishing as it is delicious.
Q: What types of squash work best in this recipe?
A: Butternut squash is a classic choice thanks to its sweet, creamy flesh, but delicata or kabocha squash can also shine here. Each offers a subtly different flavor profile and texture, allowing you to tailor the salad to your preferred autumnal vibe.Q: How does roasting the squash enhance the salad?
A: Roasting transforms the squash by concentrating its natural sugars and creating caramelized edges.This process adds depth and complexity, giving the salad a rich, slightly smoky sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of sage.Q: What role does fresh sage play in this dish?
A: Fresh sage introduces an earthy, pine-like aroma that harmonizes perfectly with farro and squash. It acts as a flavor bridge, tying the ingredients together while adding a touch of herbal sophistication that elevates the entire salad.
Q: Can this salad be served warm, cold, or both?
A: Absolutely! This salad is versatile-serve it warm to enjoy the roasted squash and farro at their coziest, or chill it for a refreshing autumn side dish. Both versions highlight the harvest flavors in different, delightful ways.
Q: Are there any simple additions that can customize this salad?
A: Yes! Toasted pumpkin seeds add a lovely crunch, dried cranberries bring bursts of tart sweetness, and a drizzle of maple syrup or a splash of lemon juice can brighten the whole composition. These additions allow you to make the salad resonate with your personal seasonal tastes.
Q: How do you recommend pairing Harvest Harmony with other fall dishes?
A: this salad is a stellar companion to roasted vegetables, hearty bean stews, or grilled mushrooms. Its balance of grains, squash, and herbs can complement a variety of plant-forward, seasonal meals-and even stand tall as a satisfying main on a crisp autumn day.
Q: what’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Since the farro absorbs dressing over time, you might want to toss the salad with a fresh splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving again to revive its vibrant flavors.
To Conclude
As the seasons shift and the harvest ripens, this Farro & Roasted Squash Salad with Sage offers more than just a meal-it brings a symphony of flavors that celebrates autumn’s bounty. The nutty chew of farro, the caramelized sweetness of roasted squash, and the earthy whisper of sage come together in a harmonious dance that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether served as a hearty lunch or a vibrant side, this salad reminds us that the simplest ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create a memorable and nourishing experience. So next time you crave a taste of fall’s embrace, let this dish be your invitation to savor the season’s gifts with every bite.
