What is Fregola Sarda?

Fregola Sarda is a type of Sardinian pasta that looks like small, toasted pearls. It has a unique nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Roast the cauliflower and prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time. Mix everything together just before serving for the best results.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta such as gluten-free couscous or quinoa to make this salad gluten-free.

What is the difference between fregola and couscous.

The main difference between fregola and couscous is their texture. Fregola is a toasted Sardinian pasta with a firmer, chewier texture, while couscous is North African and has a softer, fluffier texture.

Is fregola a pasta or a grain?

Fregola is a unique pasta variety originating from Sardinia, Italy. It consists of small, toasted semolina wheat balls that resemble couscous but have a distinct nutty flavor and a chewier texture due to the toasting process. Fregola is a versatile ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, often used in salads, soups, or as a side dish.

Warm Fregola Salad with Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

Ingredients

Units Scale

Salad:

1 cup Fregola Sarda (pearl pasta)
1 small head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup Castelvertrano green olives, pitted and chopped
1 cup baby arugula
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/4 cup dried cherries (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Citrus Basil Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Roast the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with a generous amount of olive oil—season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet or baking tray and roast for about 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly browned. Toss them halfway through for even roasting.
Make the Citrus Basil Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Cook Fregola Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the Fregola Sarda according to the package instructions (usually around 10-12 minutes, or until al dente). Drain and add to a large, shallow serving or large mixing bowl.
Assemble the Salad: In the serving bowl, combine the cooked Fregola Sarda, roasted cauliflower, chopped green olives, and arugula. Drizzle the citrus basil vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Add the toasted pine nuts and dried cherries (optional) to the salad and gently toss once more to incorporate.
Serve: This salad can be served warm or at room temperature. You can garnish with extra fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Warm Fregola Sarda Salad with Roasted Cauliflower is a Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring toasted pasta pearls, perfectly roasted cauliflower, and a zesty citrus basil vinaigrette. It is a healthy and comforting pasta salad. Serve warm or cold.

Author: Elena
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Savory
Method: Italian
Cuisine: Italian