Butternut Squash Farro

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Butternut Squash Farro is a hearty, wholesome dish that combines nutty farro—an ancient grain—with roasted butternut squash, often enhanced by herbs, greens, and cheese. It’s a warm, comforting recipe popular in fall and winter for its rich, earthy flavors and satisfying texture.




This dish can be enjoyed as a:

  • Vegetarian main course

  • Healthy side dish

  • Grain bowl base

🌾 What Is Farro?

Farro is a whole grain that dates back to ancient Mesopotamia and is commonly used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. It’s chewy, nutty, and highly nutritious, often compared to barley.

  • Types of farro:

    • Whole farro (needs soaking)

    • Semi-pearled (partially milled, cooks faster)

    • Pearled (quick-cooking, least fiber)

Nutritional benefits:

  • High in fiber

  • Rich in iron, magnesium, and B vitamins

  • Contains plant-based protein

🎃 About Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is a mildly sweet, nutty winter squash with a creamy texture when roasted. It pairs beautifully with grains like farro due to its:

  • Natural sweetness

  • Earthy undertones

  • Vibrant color

Roasting it caramelizes the edges, intensifying the flavor and making it the perfect balance to farro’s chewiness.

🍽️ Core Ingredients

Here’s what a typical Butternut Squash Farro dish includes:

Main Ingredients:

  • Farro

  • Butternut squash (peeled, cubed, roasted)

  • Olive oil

  • Salt and pepper

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Greens: Kale, spinach, or arugula

  • Cheese: Feta, goat cheese, or parmesan

  • Nuts/seeds: Walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds

  • Fresh herbs: Sage, rosemary, thyme

  • Cranberries or raisins for a sweet contrast

  • Balsamic glaze or lemon juice for acidity

👨‍🍳 Basic Recipe (How to Make It)

  1. Cook the farro: Simmer in salted water or vegetable broth until tender (about 20–30 minutes).

  2. Roast the squash: Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and herbs. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes until caramelized.

  3. Combine: Toss warm farro and roasted squash in a bowl. Add cheese, greens, nuts, and a drizzle of olive oil or vinaigrette.

  4. Finish: Season to taste and top with fresh herbs or seeds.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm or at room temperature

  • Great as a Thanksgiving or fall side dish

  • Perfect for meal prep — keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days

  • Can be made vegan by omitting cheese or using a plant-based alternative

🔀 Popular Variations

  • Farro Risotto (Farrotto): Simmered like risotto, creamier texture

  • Add proteins: Grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas

  • Switch the grain: Use quinoa, barley, or brown rice

  • Make it spicy: Add red chili flakes or harissa

  • Autumn twist: Add roasted apples or maple syrup

🌍 Cultural and Seasonal Context

  • Rooted in Mediterranean and Italian whole-grain cooking traditions

  • Celebrated in farm-to-table and vegetarian cooking circles

  • Often seen in seasonal menus, especially during autumn and winter

  • Featured in Thanksgiving menus as a healthier, plant-forward option

💡 Nutrition Highlights (per serving, approximate):

  • Calories: 300–400 kcal

  • Protein: 8–12g

  • Fiber: 6–8g

  • Fat: 12–15g (mostly from olive oil/nuts)

  • Vitamins: A, C, E, B6, potassium, magnesium

📚 Fun Facts

  • Butternut squash is a fruit, botanically speaking.

  • Farro is sometimes called the "mother of all wheat."

  • This dish aligns with Mediterranean Diet principles—heart-healthy, whole-food focused.

Would you like a printable recipe card, an image, or a version with specific dietary preferences like gluten-free or vegan?

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