If you’re looking for a salad that’s hearty, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant, Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad is a must-try. Inspired by the beloved NYC restaurant, this dish combines nutty farro with crisp arugula, juicy cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, and citrusy vinaigrette that ties it all together. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy enough for guest but easy enough for a weeknight dinner – wholesome, balanced, and full of texture in every bite.

Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for more salad recipes, Amazing Avocado Salad Recipe and Rustic Bread Salad with Tomatoes will make your taste buds happy.

I saw a TikTok video where a restaurant asked viewers what their favorite salad was. The Charlie Bird Farro Salad came up a lot. People were obsessed. Of course, I had to try the recipe.

What makes this salad out is its base: farro, an ancient grain with a satisfying chew and subtle nutty flavor. Cooked in a fragrant broth with a touch of apple cider and bay leaf, and the farro becomes tender without losing its bite – perfect for soaking up the bright lemony dressing.

A splash of good olive oil, freshly cracked pepper, and kosher salt elevate the simple ingredients into something that tastes far greater than the sum of its parts.

The real magic, though, is in the mix texture and freshness. Peppery arugula adds a light crunch, while shaved Parmesan brings richness and depth. Sweet cherry tomatoes pop with brightness, and optional add-ins like radish, pistachios, or herbs give you room to personalize.

Whether served alongside grilled fish or as a standalone lunch, this salad is a modern classic – healthy, stylish, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients to Gather

• Pearled Farro – This hearty ancient grain provides a chewy, nutty base that anchors the salad and soaks up the flavorful vinaigrette.
• Apple Cider – Adds subtle sweetness and acidity to the farro as it cooks, enhancing its flavor from within.
• Kosher Salt – Brightens and balances the flavors throughout, ensuing the farro and vegetables aren’t bland.
• Bay Leaves – Infuse the farrow with delicate herbal aroma that adds depth to the overall dish.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Brings a smooth, rich taste and ties the vinaigrette and salad components together.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the olive oil and cheese.
• Parmesan Cheese – Lends a salty, umami-rich finish that deepens the flavor and adds a touch of indulgence.
• Pistachios – Bring a buttery crunch and nutty depth that adds texture and a hint of richness to the fresh, vibrant flavors.
• Arugula – Adds a peppery bite and delicate texture that balances the heartiness of the farro and the richness of the Parmesan in Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad.
• Basil Leaves – Adds a sweet, slightly spicy note that enhances the summer flavors of tomato and lemon.
• Mint Leaves – Infuses the dish with cool, herbal brightness that complements the lemon and veggies.
• Radishes – Offer a crisp, peppery crunch that gives the salad texture and a subtle bite.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Burst with juicy sweetness, adding color and freshness to every bite.
• Flaky Sea Salt – adds a delicate, crunch finish that enhances each ingredient’s flavor and brings out the salad’s layered textures.

Creating a Cozy Life Group

Since you found this recipe Charlie Bird’s Farro Salad, I’m guessing you love all things cozy living. I created a Facebook group called Creating a Cozy Life with over 214,000 like-minded souls.

It’s a group where we share recipes, photos of things that leave you in awe, and ideas that make your life a little bit more snug. Join here to be part of the virtual cozy cottage.

I found this recipe in the New York Times. I halved the amount of mint and kosher salt the original recipe had.

Ingredients

1 cup pearled farro

1 cup apple cider

1 teaspoon kosher salt

2 bay leaves

8 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved with a vegetable peeler

1/2 cup chopped pistachio nuts

2 cups arugula leaves

1 cup parsley or basil leaves, torn

1/2 cup chopped mint leaves

1/3 cup thinly sliced radish

3/4 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

Flaky sea salt, for finishing

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the farro, apple cider, salt, bay leaves, and 2 cups of water. Bring to a simmer and cook until the farro is tender and the liquid is mostly evaporated, about 30 minutes. If the liquid cooks off too quickly, add a splash more water as need. Once cooked, let the farro cool, then remove and discard the bay leaves.

2. In a salad bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the farro, cheese, and pistachios until well combined.

This salad base can sit at room temperature for up to 4 hours to be stored in the refrigerator overnight – just let it come to room temperature before serving. Right before serving, gently fold in the arugula, fresh herbs, tomatoes, radish, and flaky salt to taste.

Tips for Making Recipe

• Please note that the ingredient is apple cider and NOT apple cider vinegar.
• Use pearled farro for quicker cooking and a tender yet chewy texture.
• Drain farro well and let it cool slightly before adding other ingredients to avoid wilting the herbs and greens.
• Season in layers – taste and adjust salt and lemon juice as you add ingredients.
• Use high-quality olive oil and Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Slice radishes thinly for the perfect crisp bite without overpowering the other flavors.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Dressing: If making ahead, keep the vinaigrette separate and toss just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
• Serving: Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

Salad Must-Have’s

• Mason Jar Pour Spout Lids for Regular Mouth Mason Jars – spout Mason Jar lids make pouring homemade salad dressings a breeze, keeping your fridge tidy and your dressings fresh with every shake.
• Twist and Pour Salad Dressing Mixer – a twist-and-pour salad dressing mixer lets you shake, blend, and serve your dressings all in one container – no mess, no fuss, just fresh flavor on demand.
• Salad Container for Lunch – salad lunch containers keep your greens crisp and toppings separate, making it easy to enjoy a fresh, mess-free salad anywhere you go.
• Herb Stripping Comb – an herb stripping comb quickly removes leaves from stems, saving time and making it effortless to add fresh herbs to salads and dressings.

Let me know in the comments if you tried the recipe and what you thought.

Be sure to join the Creating a Cozy Life Group. You’re not going to believe how amazing it is!

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Thanks for stopping by. I’m so happy you found us!

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Printable Recipe Card with Nutritional Information