Healthy Lunch Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl

Name: Healthy Lunch Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 yellow squash, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love putting this Healthy Lunch Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl together because it’s not just nutritious but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of roasted vegetables and nutty farro creates a delightful texture and taste. Whenever I feel like I need a boost, this bowl becomes my go-to! It’s packed with vitamins and minerals while also being so versatile; you can easily switch up the veggies based on the season or your favorites. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:28:06.402Z

When I first created this Healthy Lunch Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl, I experimented with various combinations of vegetables. The magic happened when I decided to roast them instead of steaming. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Don’t hesitate to try different veggies like zucchini or asparagus depending on what you have on hand!

My secret tip is to balance the seasoning: a good pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil before roasting makes all the difference. I also recommend letting the farro chill slightly after cooking, as it allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Each bite becomes a celebration of tastes and textures!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutty farro combined with sweet, roasted veggies for a satisfying meal
Loaded with vitamins, fiber, and protein, keeping you energized
Versatile and customizable based on your favorite seasonal ingredients

      

The Star Ingredient: Farro

Farro is not just a nutritious grain; it brings a delightful nuttiness to this bowl. Cooking farro in vegetable broth enhances its flavor significantly, infusing it with a rich base that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables. To achieve the perfect texture, make sure to budget around 20 minutes for simmering. The goal is to have the grains tender yet still chewy, providing a satisfying bite in every spoonful.

If you're exploring alternatives, quinoa or barley can be excellent substitutes for farro, though their cooking times will vary. Quinoa cooks in about 15 minutes, while barley might require up to 30 minutes. Just be sure to adjust your liquid ratios accordingly; typically, you will want to use two parts liquid for each part quinoa or barley.

Roasting Vegetables to Perfection

When roasting the vegetables, achieving that caramelized edge is essential. This adds layers of flavor through the Maillard reaction, which brings out the vegetables' natural sweetness. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote even cooking. If the veggies crowd each other, they’ll steam rather than roast, which can lead to a mushy texture. Look for a golden-brown color and a tender feel when testing for doneness.

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a touch of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice to the vegetables before roasting. These acids can brighten the overall taste of the bowl and complement the earthiness of the farro beautifully. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary would also elevate the flavor profile—experiment with your favorite herbs to create your personalized version!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl is a fantastic candidate for meal prepping. You can cook the farro and roast the vegetables in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers. When properly refrigerated, cooked farro stays fresh for about 4-5 days, while roasted vegetables can last up to a week. This way, you can quickly assemble your bowl on busy days without compromising on nutrition or flavor.

To reheat, simply warm your farro in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist. For the vegetables, a quick toss in a pan over medium heat will revive their crispness. If you're in a hurry, you can also serve the bowl cold, which can be refreshing in warmer months and still delicious!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious and wholesome bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup farro
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 yellow squash, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables in this simple and healthy recipe!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl:

Cook the Farro

In a pot, combine farro and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes until tender.

Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the chopped bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, add a generous portion of farro, top with the roasted vegetables, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Your Healthy Lunch Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider including chickpeas or grilled chicken strips. You can also drizzle lemon juice over the bowl for extra brightness.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Broccoli, asparagus, and carrots would all provide different yet delightful flavors and textures. Additionally, adding legumes like chickpeas or lentils will increase the protein content and create an even heartier meal.

If you're looking for a little more complexity in flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or some toasted almonds on top for a crunchy texture. Nuts and seeds not only enhance the dish's nutritional profile but also add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft farro and roasted veggies.

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl can be served as a main dish or as a side. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light protein like grilled chicken or fish. The smoky flavor from grilled meats complements the bowl's earthy elements well. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside a green salad or a refreshing yogurt sauce for a balanced lunch.

To elevate your presentation, consider layering the bowl: start with a base of farro, followed by vegetables in a colorful arrangement, and then a fresh herb garnish on top. It makes for a beautiful dish that's as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate, perfect for lunch gatherings or meal prep.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quinoa instead of farro?

Absolutely! Quinoa is a great substitute and cooks even faster, reducing your total time.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include broccoli, asparagus, or carrots, depending on your preference and seasonal availability.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth. It's perfect for all dietary preferences!