Mixed Grain Salad Recipe

Mixed grains are like the ultimate party in a bowl, bringing together textures and flavors that just work. This salad is all about vibrant colors and a satisfying crunch that makes every bite a little celebration.

With a mix of grains, fresh veggies, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s a canvas for creativity. Toss in whatever you have on hand, and watch it transform into something deliciously unique.

Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch, this salad keeps things light and fun. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good without any fuss—just pure, wholesome goodness.

What You’ll Need

Ready to whip up a colorful and crunchy mixed grain salad? Here’s everything you need to get started!

• 1 cup cooked farro
• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Dressing

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It

Ready to whip up a yummy mixed grain salad? Just follow these laid-back steps, and you’ll have a vibrant bowl of deliciousness ready in no time. Let’s make it happen!

1. Gather your ingredients: Make sure you have all your goodies ready: cooked farro, cooked lentils, diced yellow bell pepper, diced zucchini, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh parsley, finely chopped red onion, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix the salad base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked farro and lentils with the diced yellow bell pepper, diced zucchini, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped parsley, and finely chopped red onion—this is where the magic happens!
3. Season it up: Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, giving everything a good toss to ensure all those flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Whisk the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until it’s well combined and a bit frothy—this dressing is about to take your salad to the next level!
5. Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over your salad mix and toss everything together until every bite is coated in that deliciousness—don’t be shy, get in there!
6. Serve and enjoy: Grab a big fork, dig in, and savor the colorful crunch of your mixed grain salad. Feel free to let your creativity shine—this salad is all about you!

How to Tweak It

Here’s a fun list of tweaks to amp up your mixed grain salad. Let’s get creative and make it even more delicious.

• Switch up the grains: Try quinoa or bulgur instead of farro for a different texture and flavor profile. Both grains bring their own unique twist to the party.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds for an extra layer of crunch and healthy fats.
• Mix in some greens: Throw in a handful of baby spinach or arugula to add a fresh, peppery kick that brightens up the salad.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the dressing for a warm, earthy flavor that takes it to the next level.
• Get cheesy: Crumble some feta or goat cheese on top for a creamy, tangy contrast that pairs perfectly with the grains.
• Freshen it up: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors and bring everything together.
• Make it hearty: Toss in some roasted chickpeas for added protein and a satisfying crunch that’ll keep you full longer.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh twist that can change the whole vibe of the salad.

And that’s a wrap on the Mixed Grain Salad Recipe! I’d love to hear how yours turns out—did you make it your own? Drop a comment below if you have any questions or just want to share your salad vibes. Let’s keep the crunch and color going!