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This post is all about Lunch Meal Prep.
This Pesto Shrimp and Farro Salad is a nutritious meal prep option packed with over 30g of protein per serving. It’s a perfect blend of succulent shrimp, hearty farro and vibrant vegetables all tossed in a flavorful pesto dressing.
The recipe is easy to follow and ideal for busy individuals looking to prepare healthy lunches or dinners for the week. You can customize the salad with your favorite veggies or add extra toppings as desired.
This recipe is great and an easy and quick Lunch Meal Prep Idea.
Overview of Pesto Shrimp and Farro Salad
This Pesto Shrimp and Farro Salad is a delightful and nutritious meal option that brings together a variety of flavors and textures. The combination of plump shrimp, nutty farro, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying dish that is perfect for meal prepping.
With over 30 grams of protein per serving, this salad is not only filling but also a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. The vibrant colors of the ingredients make it visually appealing, while the pesto dressing adds a burst of flavor that ties everything together.
Ingredients That Shine
The main components of this salad include farro, a hearty grain that provides a chewy texture, and shrimp, which are cooked to perfection and coated in a rich pesto sauce. Cherry tomatoes and diced cucumbers add freshness and crunch, making each bite enjoyable.
To enhance the flavor profile, bell peppers can be included, offering a slight sweetness that complements the other ingredients. Fresh basil leaves serve as a garnish, adding a fragrant touch that elevates the dish even further.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this salad is straightforward and can be done in about 40 minutes. The process begins with cooking the farro until it is tender, followed by sautéing the shrimp in olive oil. Tossing the shrimp with pesto sauce ensures that every piece is well-coated and flavorful.
Once the farro and shrimp are ready, they are combined with the fresh vegetables in a large bowl. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the taste, making it a delicious option for any meal.
Meal Prep Convenience
This salad is ideal for meal prepping, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Dividing the salad into meal prep containers allows for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Whether enjoyed cold or at room temperature, this salad remains delicious and satisfying, making it a versatile choice for busy individuals.
Nutrition Highlights
Each serving of this Pesto Shrimp and Farro Salad contains approximately 450 calories, with 32 grams of protein and 15 grams of fat. The balance of carbohydrates and protein makes it a well-rounded meal that can fuel your day.
This dish is not only nutritious but also packed with flavor, making it a great addition to any healthy eating plan. The combination of ingredients ensures that you are getting a variety of vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall wellness.
Serving Suggestions
For an added touch, consider serving the salad with a slice of crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables. This can enhance the meal experience and provide additional nutrients.
Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables or toppings to suit your taste preferences. This flexibility allows you to make the dish your own while still enjoying the core flavors of the pesto shrimp and farro.
Healthy Pesto Shrimp and Farro Salad
This meal prep salad features tender shrimp cooked in pesto, combined with nutty farro and fresh vegetables. The recipe takes about 40 minutes to prepare and serves 4 portions, making it a convenient choice for meal planning.
Ingredients
- 1 cup farro, rinsed
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Farro: In a pot, combine farro with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and toss with pesto sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked farro, pesto shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Portion and Store: Divide the salad into meal prep containers. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Serve: Enjoy cold or at room temperature for a nutritious meal.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 portions
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
