This Farro Cherry Walnut Salad is a bright, flavorful grain salad that makes a great side dish or light lunch during cherry season. It’s sweet, savory, and crunchy with a simple vinaigrette that ties it all together.
The inspiration for this salad comes from my love of chewy grain-based dishes like my Lentil Salad, especially ones that are both nutritious and full of texture. Farro gives it a hearty base while the fresh cherries bring a seasonal burst of sweetness that balances perfectly with the crunch of walnuts and the zing of lime.
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Why You'll Love Farro Cherry Walnut Salad
Hearty texture: chewy farro gives this salad a satisfying, grainy bite that holds up well.
Crunchy contrast: toasted walnuts and crisp celery add layers of texture and nutty depth.
Make-ahead friendly: holds up well in the fridge and gets better as it sits.
About the Ingredients
Cooked Farro creates the hearty base of the salad with its nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Sweet Fresh Cherries bring a burst of fruity brightness and natural sweetness.
Celery adds a fresh, crisp bite to balance the soft textures.
Toasted Walnuts lend a rich crunch and depth of flavor that ties everything together.
Citrusy Vinaigrette a lime, honey, and dijon vinaigrette brightens the salad up and adds a zesty kick.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try pecans or almonds in place of walnuts for a different crunch.
Swap farro for quinoa or barley for a gluten-free or alternative grain.
Use dried cherries if fresh aren’t available.
Recipe Variations
Make it vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey.
Add crumbled feta for a salty touch.
Toss in baby spinach or arugula for more greens.
Mix in chopped apples when cherries aren’t in season.
Top Tips
- Let the farro cool completely before mixing to avoid wilting the ingredients.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning once dressed—fresh lime and salt can brighten it up just before serving.
- This salad gets better as it sits, so make it ahead if you can.
Storage
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a delicious light lunch all on its own, but it’s also a great side for grilled meats or picnic fare. I like to serve it alongside my Grilled Pork Chops with Cilantro Lime Marinade or Grilled Apricot Glazed Chicken for a well-balanced summer meal. It also pairs nicely with other cold salads like my 4 Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing or Dill Pickle Pasta Salad for an easy potluck spread.
When you make this Farro Cherry Walnut Salad recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Farro Cherry Walnut Salad
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Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked farro at room temp or chilled
- ¾ pound sweet cherries pitted and halved
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup toasted walnuts coarsely chopped
- ¼ cup flat-leaf parsley leaves chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add farro, cherries, walnuts, celery, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, using a hand whisk, combine lime juice, mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour dressing over top of cherry mixture and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate 2-3 hours.
Pam says
The colors in that salad are beautiful and cherries this year are fantastic.
Dan from Platter Talk says
Looks and sounds absolutely delicious! Thank you for sharing this one!
KC the Kitchen Chopper says
Shelby, thanks so much for the fb comment. That is so sweet. I love this "chopped" combo. I do love farro, but have never used cherries. I must do that. Thanks for this yumminess!
Renee Paj says
I happen to love farro. Love the little bit of bite you get with it. Great combination of flavors in this salad, Shelby!
Mary Ellen says
This is a gorgeous salad Shelby! I don't think I have ever cooked farro. I will have to look for it now.
JDeQ says
Farro is one of my favourite grains. Now that the local cherries have arrived at the market I shall have to try this soon.
Sarah says
Interesting salad full of summer flavours. I love farro! Must buy some to make this salad.
Susan Lindquist says
Wow! What colours! Love it, Sheby! What an incredible addition to the picnic plate! Thank you for really working this theme!
bellini says
It does sound like a delicious seasonal salad Shelby. Thanks for bringing it to the table.