Farro Salad with Tomatoes & Herbs

I made this delicious side dish at a recent family BBQ.  It was simple to make and a big hit!

10oz farro (about 1 1/2 cups)

2 1/4 tsp salt, plus more to taste

1 large garlic clove, minced

2 T balsamic vinegar

1/4 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste

1/4 c extra-virgin olive oil

2 medium size tomatoes

1/2 medium size sweet onion, finely chopped

1/4 c snipped fresh chives

1/4 c flat leaf parsley, finely chopped

1.) Cook farro according to package directions. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool.

2.) In a medium bowl, mash the garlic with 1/4 tsp of salt to make a paste.   Whisk in the vinegar and the 1/4 tsp pepper, then add the oil.  Add the tomatoes, onion, chives and parsley to the farro and toss to combine.  Add the vinaigrette to the salad and toss to coat.  Season the salad with more salt & pepper to taste.  (May be made one day ahead, bring to room temperature before serving.

Recipe courtesy of Giada De Laurentis