Freekeh Salad with Roasted Broccoli
Freekeh, an ancient grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture, is the star of this hearty salad. Roasted broccoli adds a slightly bitter note, while red onion and parsley provide brightness and freshness. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and it's also a great way to use up leftover roasted broccoli.
Freekeh is an ancient grain that has been cultivated for centuries in the Middle East and North Africa. It is made from wheat that is harvested while still green, then roasted and cracked. This process gives freekeh its distinctive smoky flavor and chewy texture. Freekeh is a good source of fiber, protein, and iron, and it is also a low-glycemic index food, which means that it doesn't cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Roasted broccoli is a great addition to this salad because it adds a slightly bitter note that balances out the sweetness of the freekeh. Red onion and parsley provide brightness and freshness, and a simple vinaigrette dressing brings all the flavors together.
Freekeh Salad with Roasted Broccoli Freekeh Salad with Roasted Broccoli Freekeh Salad with Roasted Broccoli Freekeh Salad with Roasted Broccoli
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup freekeh
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions
  1. Rinse the freekeh in a fine-mesh sieve.
  2. Combine the freekeh and water in a medium saucepan.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the freekeh is tender.
  4. Drain the freekeh and set aside.
  5. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  6. Toss the broccoli florets with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  7. Spread the broccoli florets on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
  8. Combine the freekeh, broccoli, red onion, and parsley in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
Why It Works
  • The combination of freekeh, roasted broccoli, red onion, and parsley creates a salad that is both hearty and refreshing.
  • Freekeh is a good source of fiber, protein, and iron, and it is also a low-glycemic index food.
  • Roasted broccoli adds a slightly bitter note that balances out the sweetness of the freekeh.
  • Red onion and parsley provide brightness and freshness.
  • A simple vinaigrette dressing brings all the flavors together.