Let us be honest: most side salads are an afterthought. This Cold Farro Salad with Cucumbers and Feta is different. It has enough personality to stand on its own, or it can sit happily next to a piece of grilled fish or a roasted chicken. If you loved this, also check out our Spicy Jalapeno Cilantro Slaw and Greek Yogurt Egg Salad with Dill.

Cold Farro Salad with Cucumbers and Feta
What Is Cold Farro Salad with Cucumbers and Feta?
Not all salads need to be complicated. This cold farro salad with cucumbers and feta proves that a handful of quality ingredients, treated with care, can produce something far more satisfying than a fifteen-ingredient recipe.
Why This Recipe Works
- Ready in Minutes: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal prep work, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Naturally Healthy: Packed with fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or add your favorite protein for a heartier meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here is everything you need to make this delicious recipe:
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or thawed)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese or shredded cheddar
- 2 tablespoons toasted pepitas
- 1 cup grilled chicken strips or seasoned ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- A large mixing bowl
- A sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A small bowl or jar for the dressing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 | Prepare the Base
Chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large serving bowl.

Step 2 | Add Fresh Vegetables
Add the cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, diced avocado, crumbled cheese, and toasted pepitas.

Step 3 | Make the Dressing
Top with the grilled chicken strips or seasoned ground beef.

Step 4 | Toss and Serve
In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Texture
- Dry Your Greens Thoroughly: Use a salad spinner to remove excess water. Wet greens will make your dressing watery and dilute the flavors.
- Season Generously: Do not be shy with salt and pepper. Seasoning each layer as you build the salad ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Let It Rest: If time allows, let the dressed salad sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Best Ways to Serve and Pair It
This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins, crusty bread, or a warm bowl of soup. It also makes a fantastic addition to any potluck or barbecue spread. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or your favorite protein of choice.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you are meal prepping, keep the dressing separate and store the chopped vegetables in a sealed container. Add the dressing and toss just before serving to maintain maximum freshness and crunch.
Cold Farro Salad with Cucumbers and Feta FAQs
This cold farro salad with cucumbers and feta works beautifully alongside grilled meats, as a light lunch on its own, or as part of a larger spread. It also travels well for picnics and meal prep.
Nearly any vegetable can be swapped for a similar one. If a recipe calls for cucumber and you only have zucchini, use it. The same goes for herbs — use what you have.
Store washed and dried greens in a container lined with paper towels. Keep dressing in a separate container and add it only when you are ready to eat.
Yes. Divide the undressed salad into individual containers and pack the dressing separately. Add the dressing when you are ready to eat, and it will stay fresh for up to three days.
Cold Farro Salad with Cucumbers and Feta
Not all salads need to be complicated. This cold farro salad with cucumbers and feta proves that a handful of quality ingredients, treated with care, can produce something far more satisfying than a fifteen-ingredient recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or thawed)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese or shredded cheddar
- 2 tablespoons toasted pepitas
- 1 cup grilled chicken strips or seasoned ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large serving bowl.
- Step 2: Add the cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, diced avocado, crumbled cheese, and toasted pepitas.
- Step 3: Top with the grilled chicken strips or seasoned ground beef.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve right away for the best texture.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1.5 cupsAmount Per Serving: Calories: 340Total Fat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 480mgCarbohydrates: 26gFiber: 8gSugar: 7gProtein: 22g