Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet

Name: Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup farro; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love whipping up this Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet when I need something nutritious and satisfying. The earthy flavor of farro combined with a colorful array of vegetables creates a vibrant dish that's perfect for lunch. It’s a one-pan meal, meaning clean-up is a breeze! Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—I often switch up the veggies depending on what I have on hand. This recipe is not only healthy but also packed with fiber and protein, making it a fantastic option for lunch that keeps me energized throughout the day.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:07:35.344Z

When I first tried making this Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together while still packing a flavor punch. The trick is to sauté the vegetables just right—allowing them to get a little caramelized amplifies their taste without overpowering the dish. I usually choose colorful bell peppers and zucchini, but feel free to mix in whatever seasonal veggies you love.

One tip I swear by is to toast the farro in the pan for a couple of minutes before adding the water. This simple step enhances the nutty flavor of the grain and gives the dish an extra layer of depth. After making it several times, I can confidently say this recipe is now a staple in my meal prep routine!

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty grains packed with protein and fiber
A rainbow of vegetables for a nutrient boost
Quick and easy to prepare in one skillet

      

Mastering Farro

Farro is an ancient grain that not only offers a delightful chewiness but also packs a nutrient punch. It's rich in protein and fiber, which makes it an ideal base for this skillet dish. When cooking farro, it's essential to rinse it under cold water to remove any debris. Toasting the grains briefly in olive oil adds a nutty depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Remember to monitor the toasting process closely; you want them lightly toasted, not browned.

Cooking time is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Depending on the specific farro type (pearled, semi-pearled, or whole grain), cooking times may vary. Pearled farro usually cooks in about 20 minutes, while whole farro can take up to 40 minutes. If you're following a package's instructions, make sure the farro is tender but not mushy. This grain's ability to absorb flavors during cooking further enhances the dish.

Vegetable Variations

While this recipe features bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, it’s incredibly adaptable. Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus in spring or butternut squash in the fall. Leafy greens such as spinach or kale can also be thrown in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition. The key is to add hardy vegetables first and softer ones later. This way, everything cooks perfectly while retaining individual textures.

For a twist, consider using roasted vegetables instead of fresh. Roasting brings out natural sweetness and adds a different layer of flavor. If you have leftovers from dinner, integrating them into this skillet can save time without sacrificing taste. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, simmering only long enough for everything to warm through without overcooking.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 cup farro
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious skillet meal:

Prepare the Farro

In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the farro and toast for about 2 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute). Then, add the bell pepper and zucchini, and sauté for an additional 5 minutes.

Combine and Cook

Stir in the cherry tomatoes and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes or until the farro is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Season and Serve

Once cooked, season the skillet with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand to customize this dish. Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors even more.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet can be prepared in advance, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. You can cook the farro and sauté the vegetables separately, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. When you're ready to eat, simply combine them in a skillet and heat on medium until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if necessary to maintain moisture.

If you're looking to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in a skillet on low, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Storing and Serving

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat. Adding a bit of water or broth can help achieve the desired consistency without drying out the dish. If you're looking to serve it warm with a twist, try pairing it with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.

This skillet dish can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a versatile option for lunch or a light dinner. Topping it with toasted nuts or seeds offers extra crunch, while a handful of fresh herbs can elevate its freshness. Since it's nutrient-dense, it’s also an excellent choice for those looking for a filling yet healthy option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different grain instead of farro?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa, brown rice, or even bulgur for a different texture and flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add protein to this skillet?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu can be great additions to make this a heartier meal.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Healthy Lunch Farro Veggie Skillet is completely vegan and packed with nutrients!