Mediterranean Brunch Grain Bowl with Chickpeas and Feta

Overhead shot of Mediterranean Brunch Grain Bowl with Chickpeas and Feta plated appetizingly in a ceramic bowl with toppings visible
BrunchMediterraneanVegetarianHeavy Meal
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time20 min
Total Time40 min
Servings4

Grain bowls earn their keep at brunch when the grain itself carries flavor instead of just filling space, so this one starts with farro simmered until chewy, then gets tossed warm with lemon and olive oil before anything else goes on top. Chickpeas add staying power, feta adds salt and tang, and a scatter of herbs pulls the whole bowl toward the coast.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup farro, rinsed
  • 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine farro and water or broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes, until tender and chewy. Drain any excess liquid.
  2. While the farro cooks, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
  3. Transfer the warm farro to a large bowl and toss with half the dressing.
  4. Add the chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Divide the bowl among four plates or shallow bowls. Top with crumbled feta, parsley, and mint.
  6. Drizzle with the remaining dressing and the last tablespoon of olive oil just before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 410
Total fat 18g
Total carbohydrates 50g
Dietary fiber 10g
Protein 14g
Sodium 560mg

Why This Is Good for Your Gut

Chickpeas and whole-grain farro bring fiber that feeds a diverse gut microbiome, while the olive oil in place of heavier saturated fats supports a calmer digestive response overall. This kind of plate, built around vegetables, legumes, and modest dairy, is close to the traditional Mediterranean pattern researchers keep linking to better gut and heart outcomes.

Make a double batch of farro on Sunday and this bowl comes together in ten minutes for the rest of the week.

This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice.

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