Name: Farro with Fennel and Carrots
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 1/4 hr
Yield: Makes 8 (side dish) servings
Ingredients: 1 lb farro (2 3/4 cups); 3 cups chicken stock or reduced-sodium chicken broth (24 fl oz); 2 cups water; 1 garlic clove; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 large fennel bulb (1 lb; sometimes labeled "anise"), stalks discarded and bulb cut into 1/4-inch dice; 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata or other brine-cured black olives (3 oz), quartered; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons red-wine vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 lb carrots (about 5 medium); 1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley; an adjustable-blade slicer

Image may contain Plant Food Produce and Vegetable

Farro with Fennel and CarrotsJohn Kernick

This side dish plays the dual role of salad (with crunchy fennel and carrot and fresh parsley) and bed for the Cornish hens (recipe precedes) — the seasoning of these chewy grains echoes that of the olive butter tucked under the birds' skin.

Cooks' note:

Farro with fennel and carrots can be made 1 day ahead and cooled completely, uncovered, then chilled, covered.

Recipe notes

See Related Recipes and Cooking Tips

97 Thanksgiving Potluck Ideas for Sides & Mains
These crowd-friendly dishes, from hearty roasted squash to creamy potato gratins and fresh kale salads, will make you the potluck winner.

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

One-Pot Chicken Thighs With Cilantro Rice and Beans

This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce

A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.

Recipe notes

97 Thanksgiving Potluck Ideas for Sides & Mains