Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet

Name: Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups fresh spinach; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Recipes

I love whipping up this Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet because it’s not only colorful but bursting with flavor. Whenever I need a quick meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying, this skillet comes to mind. The combination of farro, vibrant veggies, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful dish that keeps my energy up. In just 30 minutes, I can enjoy a hearty lunch that’s as good for the body as it is for the soul. Let me show you how to make it!

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:21:35.508Z

When I first stumbled upon farro, I knew I had to incorporate it into my meals. It’s nutty and chewy, making it an ideal base for a veggie-packed skillet. After experimenting with various vegetables, I found that zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes blend perfectly with the earthy flavor of farro.

One tip I’d share is to balance the cooking times of the veggies. I sauté them based on how long they take to cook, adding the faster-cooking ones like spinach towards the end. This way, every ingredient is perfectly tender but still vibrant!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutty farro provides a satisfying texture and is packed with nutrients.
Fresh vegetables make the dish colorful and vibrant.
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy lunches.

      

Understanding Farro

Farro is an ancient grain known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, which adds a delightful base to this veggie skillet. This grain takes about 15-20 minutes to cook and retains a firm consistency, making it an ideal choice for quick and hearty meals. Be sure to rinse it under cold water before cooking to remove any residual dirt and ensure even cooking.

In this recipe, farro plays a crucial role not just as a filler but also as a nutrient powerhouse. It's high in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, which can help keep you full longer and provide steady energy. To vary the texture, consider using pearled farro for a quicker cook time, or whole farro for a chewier, earthier bite.

Vegetable Choices and Substitutions

The vibrant medley of vegetables in this recipe isn’t just for aesthetics; each ingredient contributes unique flavors and nutrients. If you're not a fan of zucchini or bell peppers, consider alternatives like asparagus or broccoli, which also sauté beautifully and complement the dish’s base. Additionally, for seasonal variation, you can incorporate vegetables such as asparagus in the spring or squash in the fall.

When selecting fresh spinach, opt for young leaves for a milder flavor. If you prefer a more robust taste, substituting kale is a great option, adding a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the sautéed vegetables. Remember, when adding any substitution, adjust cooking times accordingly—denser veggies may require longer sautéing for tenderness.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this farro skillet stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors fresh, make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to revive the moisture and prevent dryness.

For a heartier meal prep option, consider doubling the recipe and freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. This dish freezes beautifully for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs upon serving can enhance the flavors immaculate!

Ingredients

Farro Veggie Skillet Ingredients

1 cup farro
2 cups vegetable broth
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious dish!

Instructions

Cook the Farro

In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the farro, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then add zucchini and bell pepper, cooking until they soften, around 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked farro and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything, cooking for another 3 minutes. Finally, fold in the spinach and cook just until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.

Dig in and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies or protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing this farro veggie skillet with a lean protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added texture and satisfaction. Plate it alongside a tangy yogurt sauce or a dollop of hummus, enhancing the creamy contrast that beautifully complements the dish's earthiness.

Feeling adventurous? Try serving this dish in a wrap, placing the farro mixture into a tortilla with a drizzle of tahini sauce and a sprinkle of feta cheese for an easy-to-eat lunch option. Adjust the seasoning to your preference for a customized touch!

Flavor Variations

To elevate the flavor profile of this Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet, consider adding spices or herbs during the sautéing process. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a gentle heat, while cumin would impart a warm, earthy undertone that complements the vegetables beautifully. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also liven up the dish.

If you're in the mood for a more Mediterranean twist, a handful of olives or sun-dried tomatoes can transform this dish. Just be sure to adjust the salt accordingly, as these ingredients can be quite salty on their own.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another grain instead of farro?

Yes, quinoa or brown rice would also work well.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, leftovers will last for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it only uses veggies and grains.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

Consider adding chickpeas, cooked lentils, or grilled chicken for an extra protein boost.