Healthy Lunch Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl

Name: Healthy Lunch Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup farro; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 3 tablespoons tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon water; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Nourishing

I love how vibrant and nutritious this Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl is, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lunch. The combination of roasted vegetables paired with nutty farro creates a dish that's not only filling but also visually appealing. We often prepare this bowl as a meal prep option, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully throughout the week. Each ingredient complements the others, offering a variety of textures and tastes that keep things interesting, ensuring I'm satisfied and energized for the rest of my day.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:19:15.951Z

While experimenting with different grains, I fell in love with farro for its chewy texture and nutty flavor. Roasting vegetables before adding them to the dish enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor profile. I recommend using seasonal vegetables when making this bowl; they not only taste better but also add a colorful presentation.

To take this farro bowl to the next level, I drizzle a simple lemon-tahini dressing over the top. The creaminess of the tahini balances out the roasted veggies while the lemon juice adds a zesty brightness. This dressing can also be made in advance, making lunchtime even more convenient.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a midday boost
Customizable with your favorite seasonal vegetables
Delicious lemon-tahini dressing ties everything together

Roasting Tips for Perfect Veggies

When roasting vegetables, it's crucial to ensure they're evenly coated in olive oil. This not only enhances their flavor but also aids in achieving that coveted caramelization. Aim for a ratio of about two tablespoons of olive oil per four cups of chopped vegetables. Keep an eye on the roasting process, as cook times can vary based on your oven and vegetable size. Look for tender, golden edges, signaling readiness for a burst of flavor in your farro bowl.

For even better results, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Tossing them with the veggies before roasting can infuse additional flavor. If you prefer a bit more heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes will elevate the dish. Remember to give your veggies space on the baking sheet; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, preventing that delicious caramelized effect.

Understanding Farro and Its Cooking Technique

Farro is a versatile ancient grain that imparts a nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it an ideal base for this bowl. When cooking farro, always rinse it under cold water first to remove any debris and enhance its flavor. For optimal texture, use a ratio of 1 cup of farro to 2 cups of broth; this allows the grains to absorb the liquid fully and soften beautifully without becoming mushy.

Another key to perfectly cooked farro is to simmer it gently over low heat. This prevents uneven cooking and ensures each grain remains distinct. Should you find your farro a bit tough after the initial cooking time, simply add a splash more broth or water and continue simmering for an additional 5-10 minutes until desired tenderness is achieved.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of this Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap out any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, asparagus, or broccoli are fantastic alternatives that can be used interchangeably based on your preferences. For a protein boost, consider adding chickpeas or black beans to the mix; they pair wonderfully with the farro's nutty flavor.

For those looking to cater to specific dietary needs, this recipe can easily be gluten-free by substituting farro with quinoa or brown rice. Similarly, if you're aiming for a vegan option, the tahini dressing is naturally plant-based, but you can substitute it with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative. This way, you can enjoy a hearty meal that meets various dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your delicious farro bowl:

Roasted Veggies

1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Farro Base

1 cup farro
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Lemon-Tahini Dressing

3 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon water
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the veggies and seasoning to your preference!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your healthy lunch bowl:

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Farro

In a medium saucepan, combine the farro, vegetable broth (or water), olive oil, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 25 minutes or until the farro is tender. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked farro and roasted veggies. Drizzle with lemon-tahini dressing and serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your colorful and nutritious farro bowl!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different vegetables and grains for variety. Quinoa or brown rice can also be great substitutes for farro.

Storing and Reheating

If you plan to make this bowl in advance, storing it properly can keep your meal prep efficient. Both the roasted vegetables and cooked farro can be kept in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. This allows the flavors to develop even further over time, making those leftovers a delightful surprise.

When you're ready to enjoy your bowl again, simply reheat the farro and vegetables together in a microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding the lemon-tahini dressing just before serving ensures it remains fresh and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl, consider adding fresh herbs or microgreens as a finishing touch. This not only enhances the dish's look but adds a burst of freshness that complements the roasted flavors beautifully. Additionally, sprinkling feta cheese or nutritional yeast can introduce a creamy or savory element depending on your dietary preferences.

For a more substantial meal, serve your farro and veggies alongside a grilled protein such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. This not only enhances the overall nutritional value but also makes for a well-rounded, satisfying lunch or dinner option that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other grains instead of farro?

Absolutely! Quinoa, barley, or brown rice would work well in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, this Roasted Veggie Farro Bowl is completely vegan and packed with nutrients!

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Definitely! The lemon-tahini dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for about a week.