Ina Garten Revealed Her Favorite Vegetarian Dinner

Ina Garten’s Favorite Vegetarian Dish: Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad

Key Points

• Ina’s favorite vegetarian dish is a simple salad named after the Charlie Bird restaurant in NYC
• This recipe is featured in Cook Like a Pro, one of her many cookbooks
• Serve as a main course or delicious side dish for holiday meals and everyday dinners

Why Choose an Ina Garten Recipe?

When seeking delicious recipes featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors, Ina Garten’s creations consistently deliver. The Barefoot Contessa host specializes in simple yet mouthwatering dishes, from cozy braised short ribs to delectably cheesy Baked Fontina. With countless standout recipes in her repertoire, selecting just one can be challenging—making her personal recommendations invaluable.

The Ultimate Vegetarian Pick

Ina recently simplified dinner planning by revealing her favorite vegetarian dish: Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad. Named after a New York City restaurant featuring this signature salad, Ina re-created it for her cookbook Cook Like a Pro. It’s now a staple in her home kitchen—a lighter option that remains "so delicious and satisfying that no one minds."

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Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4-6 as main course)

• 1 cup pearled farro (6 ounces)
• 1 cup fresh apple cider
• 2 bay leaves
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ cup quality olive oil
• 1 cup roughly chopped fresh parsley
• 1 cup roughly chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ⅓ cup thinly sliced radishes (2-3 radishes)
• ½ cup shaved Italian Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup roasted, salted pistachios
• 2 cups baby arugula
• Flaked sea salt (like Maldon)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Cook the Farro (40 minutes):
Combine farro, apple cider, bay leaves, pinch of salt, and 2 cups water in a saucepan. Bring to boil, then simmer 30 minutes until tender. Add water if needed. Discard bay leaves. (Pro tip: Prepare farro 1 day ahead and refrigerate.)

2. Make the Vinaigrette:
Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp pepper. Pour over warm farro and stir. Let cool 15 minutes.

3. Assemble the Salad:
Prep herbs, tomatoes, radishes, and Parmesan while farro cools. Gently fold pistachios, herbs, tomatoes, radishes, arugula, and Parmesan into farro mixture. Finish with flaked salt.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

• Main Course: Pair with crusty bread for a protein-packed vegetarian meal
• Side Dish: Complement roasted chicken or fish
• Seasonal Twist: Add pomegranate seeds in winter or peaches in summer
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute farro with quinoa or brown rice

Why This Salad Shines Year-Round

Unlike summer-focused salads, this hearty dish uses accessible winter ingredients. The nutty farro base, bright herbs, and salty Parmesan create depth, while pistachios add crunch. As Ina confirms, it’s a pantry-friendly meal that never compromises flavor.

Farro Alternatives & Recipe Ideas

New to farro? Try these variations:

• Grilled Vegetable & Black Bean Farro Bowls
• Anti-Inflammatory Farro & White Bean Salad
• Farro Risotto with Mushrooms & Greens

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Charlie Bird Farro Salad redefines vegetarian comfort food. With its balance of toothsome grains, fresh herbs, and savory accents, it delivers restaurant-quality satisfaction in under an hour. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing weekday lunches, this dish—endorsed by the Contessa herself—proves plant-based meals can be both wholesome and indulgent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pearled farro?
Pearled farro is an ancient Mediterranean wheat with most bran removed. It cooks faster than whole farro and requires no soaking. Always check packaging for cooking times, as varieties differ.

Is farro gluten-free?
No, farro contains gluten. For gluten-free versions, substitute brown rice or quinoa—though results will vary.

How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Freeze for 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water in 30-second microwave intervals or 5 minutes stovetop. Serve warm or at room temperature.

What pairs well with this salad?
Serve alongside roasted vegetables, grilled salmon, or crusty bread. For wine pairings, choose Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Omit Parmesan or use nutritional yeast. Ensure apple cider and pistachios are vegan-certified.