Farro Caprese Salad with Shrimp: A Hearty and Zesty Summer Delight

This simple Farro Caprese Salad with Shrimp is a vibrant, zesty, and incredibly satisfying twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad, perfect for any occasion.

Welcome back to the blog! I’m thrilled to introduce a brand new segment, one that celebrates the joy of sharing delicious food with those we cherish. It’s called “Meals from Mare’s Friends,” and it’s dedicated to showcasing incredible recipes inspired by the wonderful people in my life, bringing their culinary traditions and unique creations right to your kitchen.

You might recall a few weeks ago when I shared my friend Katherine’s delightful Roasted Cauliflower Chickpea Salad, a true testament to her ingenious plant-based cooking. Today, we’re embarking on another exciting culinary journey, this time courtesy of my dear friend Fernando. His recipe hails all the way from Montevarchi, Italy, a charming town nestled twenty miles south of the historic city of Florence, offering us a taste of authentic Tuscan home cooking.

The Story Behind This Mediterranean Masterpiece

A few weeks ago, my husband Tom and I had the pleasure of catching up with our wonderful friends, Jackie and Nando (Fernando’s nickname). During our lively conversation, Nando mentioned a hearty farro salad that his grandmother and aunt frequently prepare during their visits to Italy. His description immediately piqued my interest, and my eyes lit up. I knew instantly that I would adore this dish, primarily because farro is one of my absolute favorite grains. Its robust, nutty flavor and satisfying chewy texture make it incredibly filling, keeping me energized and satiated for hours.

Beyond my love for farro, I’m also an enormous enthusiast of the classic Caprese salad, especially during the warm summer months. There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of fresh, creamy mozzarella, vibrant garden-ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves, all lightly drizzled with the finest olive oil and seasoned with a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. It’s an effortlessly elegant dish, consistently a crowd-pleaser, and a staple in my summer diet. The idea of combining the wholesome goodness of farro with the fresh, iconic ingredients of a Caprese salad, further enhanced by the addition of tender shrimp (a nod to our coastal lifestyle!), sounded like an absolute triumph for a summer meal. It was a recipe I simply had to try and, of course, share with all of you.

Why This Farro Caprese Salad Is a Must-Try

This salad is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings together diverse textures and refreshing flavors. Farro, an ancient grain, provides a fantastic base, offering a unique chewiness and a subtle nutty taste that stands up beautifully to the other ingredients. Unlike lighter greens often used in salads, farro adds a substantial quality, transforming what could be a simple side into a fulfilling main course.

The Caprese components are, of course, the stars of the show. Using peak-season tomatoes, whether grape, cherry, or a larger heirloom variety cut into bite-sized pieces, ensures a burst of juicy sweetness. Paired with fresh mozzarella, preferably the small, cherry-sized balls (ciliegine or bocconcini) for convenience, you get that creamy, milky contrast that defines a classic Caprese. And let’s not forget the basil—fresh basil is non-negotiable here, contributing its aromatic, slightly peppery notes that elevate the entire dish.

The addition of shrimp introduces a delightful seafood element, making the salad lean and protein-rich. Shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully, making it an ideal choice for a speedy meal. Whether you prefer grilling it for a smoky char or sautéing it in a pan with a touch of olive oil and garlic for tenderness, the choice is yours. And if shrimp isn’t quite your preference, feel free to substitute it with grilled chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas or white beans for an equally delicious and satisfying meal. The versatility of this salad is truly one of its greatest strengths.

Mastering the Ingredients: Tips for the Best Flavor

To truly unlock the potential of this Farro Caprese Salad with Shrimp, pay attention to the quality and preparation of each ingredient:

• Farro: While any type of farro will work, opt for semi-pearled or whole farro for maximum nutritional benefits and a chewier texture. Bob’s Red Mill is a reliable brand. Rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove any surface starches.
• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp, cleaned and deveined, are best. For ease, use medium to large shrimp. Don’t overcook them; shrimp cooks quickly and becomes rubbery if left on the heat too long. A simple sauté with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper is often all it needs.
• Tomatoes: Grape or cherry tomatoes are ideal for their concentrated sweetness and easy halving. However, any ripe, juicy red tomato, diced, will be fantastic. Seasonal, local tomatoes will always provide the best flavor.
• Fresh Mozzarella: The small, cherry-sized mozzarella balls (ciliegine) are perfect as they require no cutting. If you use a larger ball, simply cube it into bite-sized pieces. The freshness of the mozzarella is key to the Caprese experience.
• Pesto: A good quality pesto is essential. While homemade pesto offers an unparalleled freshness, a store-bought variety can work beautifully for convenience. Adjust the quantity to your taste; some prefer a richer pesto coating, while others like it lighter.
• Garlic & Lemon: These two ingredients are flavor powerhouses. Minced fresh garlic adds a pungent kick, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens and ties all the flavors together, cutting through the richness of the pesto and mozzarella.
• Pine Nuts: A sprinkle of pine nuts adds a delightful crunch and a subtle, buttery flavor. Lightly toasting them before adding can enhance their nuttiness.
• Fresh Basil: Plucked from the garden or a fresh bunch, basil leaves are indispensable. Add them at the end to preserve their vibrant color and delicate aroma.

Serving and Customization Ideas

This Farro Caprese Salad with Shrimp is incredibly versatile. It makes a fantastic light lunch, a satisfying main course for a weeknight dinner, or a stellar addition to any summer potluck or barbecue. You can serve it at room temperature, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully, or chilled for a refreshing option on a hot day. It’s also an excellent choice for meal prep, as the farro and other ingredients hold up well in the refrigerator for a few days.

Don’t hesitate to customize this salad to your liking. For an extra boost of vegetables, consider adding finely diced cucumber, colorful bell peppers, or a handful of fresh arugula. A sprinkle of balsamic glaze can add another layer of tangy sweetness if you enjoy that classic Caprese pairing. If you’re looking to make it vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and perhaps add some roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, or even more protein-rich chickpeas. For a richer flavor, you could even try a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, though traditionally Caprese relies on the pure flavor of mozzarella.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its fresh ingredients. It’s a testament to how wonderful home cooking can be when inspired by friends and family from around the world. Thanks again, Nando, for sharing this gem! I truly hope you all enjoy this delightful Farro Caprese Salad with Shrimp as much as my family and I do.