Turkey and Farro Salad

Turkey and Farro Salad

You’re Gonna Love This: High-Protein Turkey + Farro Salad Perfect as a weeknight go to! 

Updated: 4/4/2025

Oh man—have I got a treat for you!

If you haven’t cooked with farro yet, consider this your very gentle nudge (ok, maybe a shove). It’s hearty, super satisfying, and makes a great alternative to pasta or rice when you want something with a little more oomph.

I’ve been playing around with different grains lately because—let’s be real—brown rice gets old. Farro is one of those “ancient grains” that’s having a big modern moment, and for good reason. It’s been around since Roman times (we’re talking real OG status), but lately it’s popping up on grocery store shelves everywhere.

So what’s the deal with farro?

Let me break it down:
Farro is a whole grain that’s nutty, chewy (in the best way), and packed with nutrition. It’s rich in fiber, iron, B vitamins, and magnesium (which is one of my favorites,  it’s a “chill-out” mineral because it helps calm your nervous system).

Here’s the best part—it’s surprisingly high in protein for a grain. One ¼ cup dry serving has around 7 grams of protein, which helps make meals more balanced and satisfying. Combine that with some lean ground turkey and leafy greens, and boom—you’ve got a high-protein, nutrient-dense meal that actually tastes good.

Wait, but are grains were “bad”?

Yeah, I hear this a lot. Grains have gotten a bad rap, mostly because refined grains (like white flour) are stripped of their fiber and nutrients. But whole grains—like farro, quinoa, millet, spelt, etc.—can absolutely be part of a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet. In fact, they are a great source of fiber and they are satisfying carbs. The key is choosing quality and tuning into what works for your body.

Easy Weeknight Meal: Turkey + Farro Salad

This recipe is a total weeknight hero. It comes together in about 20 minutes, is super customizable, and is packed with protein, fiber, and greens. Basically, it checks all the boxes. Make it once and I guarantee it’ll be on repeat.

🌿 Turkey & Farro Salad
Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 15 mins | Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup quick-cooking farro

• 1 lb ground turkey (or chicken, lamb, or plant-based alt)

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 1 Tbsp Italian herb blend

• 2 tsp garlic powder

• 2.5 cups water (or broth for extra flavor)

• 4–6 cups salad greens (spinach, cabbage, kale, romaine—whatever you’ve got)

• Juice of ½ large lemon

• Pinch of sea salt

• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and ground turkey. Cook until browned.

2. Stir in the herb blend, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add farro and toss to coat.

3. Add water (or broth), cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until farro is tender and liquid is absorbed. Add more water if needed.

4. Meanwhile, toss your greens with a drizzle of olive oil and a big squeeze of lemon.

5. To serve: layer greens on a plate and top with the warm turkey + farro mixture. Finish with a pinch of salt and more lemon if you’re feelin’ fancy.

Seriously, you’re going to love this one. It’s cozy, filling, and just the right mix of healthy and hearty. Plus, it makes great leftovers for lunch the next day.

Have you cooked with farro before? Let me know how you like to use it—or if you try this recipe, tag me so I can see your creations!