Warm Winter Farro Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked farro
- 3 cups cubed butternut squash, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- kosher salt and pepper
- 1 cup whole pecans
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 cup dried cranberries or tart cherries
- 2 to 3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
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3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
CRANBERRY CINNAMON VINAIGRETTE
- 3 tablespoons cranberry juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/3 cup olive oil
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Place the squash on a baking sheet and drizzle with the olive oil. Season with a big pinch of salt and pepper. I also like to do a sprinkle of garlic powder!
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Roast the squash for 20 minutes, or until slightly caramelized and fork tender. While the squash is roasting, you can make the farro too! Cook it according to the package directions. You can also make the vinaigrette during this time too!
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To toast the pecans, heat the pecans in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Drizzle in the maple syrup. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, as the maple syrup sizzles. Spread the pecans on a sheet of parchment paper until ready to use. You can chop them or leave them whole – your choice.
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Place the farro in a large bowl. Toss in the roasted butternut squash cubes, the dried cranberries, goat cheese and pecans. Drizzle on a few tablespoons of the vinaigrette and toss the salad well.
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Taste the farro and season with a pinch of salt and pepper if needed. Drizzle in more of the vinaigrette if desired. Top with the fresh parsley. Serve immediately!
