There is something truly satisfying about a bowl that delivers vibrant flavors, hearty texture, and bright freshness all at once, and this Farro Grain Bowl with Chickpeas, Avocado, and Lemon-Tahini Dressing Recipe does exactly that. It brings together nutty farro, creamy avocado, tender chickpeas, and crisp veggies, all tied together with a zesty, luscious lemon-tahini dressing that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a filling dinner, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a nourishing meal that feels homemade and special every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right makes all the difference in this recipe. Each one is simple but essential, contributing to the bowl’s wonderful balance of flavors, textures, and colors—making every bite vibrant and satisfying.
- Cooked farro: This chewy whole grain forms the hearty base that brings a satisfying texture and nutty flavor to the bowl.
- Diced cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch and lightness to balance the creamier elements.
- Halved cherry tomatoes: Bursting with juicy sweetness, they brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
- Chickpeas (drained and rinsed): Provide protein and a creamy texture that complements both the grains and the veggies.
- Ripe avocado (diced): Brings a buttery richness that contrasts wonderfully with the zesty dressing.
- Finely diced red onion (optional): Offers a sharp, slightly sweet bite that lifts the overall flavor profile.
- Feta cheese (optional): Adds a salty creaminess that pairs beautifully with lemon and tahini.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Garnishes with an herbaceous freshness that refreshes the palate.
- Large lemon: Key for both zest and juice to create the bright, tangy dressing.
- Garlic powder: Provides a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the dressing.
- Tahini: The nutty sesame paste that gives the dressing its creamy, indulgent consistency.
- Maple syrup: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Olive oil: Smooths the dressing and adds richness.
- Red wine vinegar: Enhances the dressing’s tang and complexity.
- Dried oregano: Brings a fragrant herbal note that complements the Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Farro Grain Bowl with Chickpeas, Avocado, and Lemon-Tahini Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon-Tahini Dressing
Begin by zesting your lemon to gather about one teaspoon of that vibrant zest, then juice it to get about three tablespoons of fresh juice. Into a wide-mouth jar, add your lemon zest and juice along with garlic powder, tahini, maple syrup, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Once everything is in, seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until the dressing comes together in a smooth, creamy emulsion. This dressing is the heart of the Farro Grain Bowl with Chickpeas, Avocado, and Lemon-Tahini Dressing Recipe, so give it a taste and tweak the seasoning if needed. Then pop it into the fridge to chill until ready to use.
Step 2: Assemble the Farro Grain Bowl
Start layering your cooked farro in a large bowl or plate as the base. Next, add the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed chickpeas, diced avocado, and if desired, the finely diced red onion and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the lemon-tahini dressing generously over the top to tie all the elements together. This step is where the magic happens, as each ingredient combines visually and flavor-wise into one colorful, nourishing bowl.
How to Serve Farro Grain Bowl with Chickpeas, Avocado, and Lemon-Tahini Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley leaves are a wonderful garnish that add an herbal brightness and extra color contrast. You can also sprinkle a little more feta or cracked black pepper on top for a finishing touch. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side invites everyone to add extra brightness if they like. These simple additions bring the whole dish to life and make it feel that much more special.
Side Dishes
This bowl holds its own as a full meal, but if you want to round it out, consider serving it alongside a light soup or some warm pita bread. A side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad would also harmonize beautifully, complementing the freshness and heartiness of the bowl without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the ingredients in a clear glass jar for a visually stunning presentation, perfect for meal prep or taking lunch on the go. Alternatively, serve the bowl in individual lettuce cups or collard green wraps to change up the texture and add an extra vegetable crunch. Playing with presentation elevates the experience and makes enjoying the Farro Grain Bowl with Chickpeas, Avocado, and Lemon-Tahini Dressing Recipe even more fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover components can be stored separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness—keep the farro, veggies, and chickpeas chilled, and the dressing in its own container. Combine everything just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as the avocado and dressing can change texture when frozen. However, you can freeze cooked farro and chickpeas separately and defrost when ready to use. Just be sure to prepare fresh avocado and dressing for each serving.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, gently reheat the farro and chickpeas in the microwave or on the stovetop, then add fresh vegetables and avocado. Dress the bowl freshly with your lemon-tahini dressing right before serving for that perfect balance of warm and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use other grains instead of farro?
Absolutely! While farro provides a nutty chewiness, you can substitute with quinoa, brown rice, or barley depending on what you have or prefer. Just keep in mind the cooking times and textures may vary slightly.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, it is! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative to keep the bowl perfectly plant-based while still delicious.
How long does the lemon-tahini dressing last?
The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just make sure to shake or stir it well before each use, as natural separation may occur.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Definitely! The lemon-tahini dressing benefits from a little time in the fridge to let the flavors meld, so making it a day ahead can enhance the taste even more.
What if I don’t have maple syrup? Can I use something else?
Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for a similar touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the lemon and vinegar.
Final Thoughts
This Farro Grain Bowl with Chickpeas, Avocado, and Lemon-Tahini Dressing Recipe is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds and a boost for your body. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and packed with vibrant flavors and textures that never get boring. I encourage you to dive in, get creative with your favorite add-ins, and enjoy every delicious, wholesome bite of this lovely bowl.
Print
Farro Grain Bowl with Chickpeas, Avocado, and Lemon-Tahini Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 bowl (dressing recipe makes enough for 4–6 bowls)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Grain Bowl is a wholesome and refreshing meal featuring cooked farro, fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and a zesty tahini-lemon dressing. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or light dinner, it balances hearty grains and plant-based protein with bright, tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Grain Bowl
- 1/2 cup cooked farro
- 1/3 cup diced cucumber
- 1/3 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/3 cup chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 of 1 large ripe avocado (diced)
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion (optional)
- 1 tablespoon feta cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for serving)
Dressing
- 1 large lemon (zested and juiced for 1 teaspoon zest and 3 tablespoons juice)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Zest the lemon to obtain 1 teaspoon of zest and juice it to get 3 tablespoons of lemon juice. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, tahini, maple syrup, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to a wide-mouth jar. Secure the lid tightly and shake the jar vigorously until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if necessary. Refrigerate and shake well before each use.
- Assemble the Grain Bowl: In a large bowl or plate, layer the cooked farro as the base. Top with diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, drained chickpeas, diced avocado, finely diced red onion (if using), and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Drizzle the prepared tahini-lemon dressing generously over the ingredients. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges alongside a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- Cook farro ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for quick assembly.
- If you prefer a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
- Store leftover dressing in the refrigerator for up to one week and shake well before each use.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
- Farro can be substituted with other grains like quinoa, barley, or brown rice based on availability.
