Farro, Kale, and Strawberry Salad with Bacon and Chili-Dusted Pepitas

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the minced shallot, lemon zest and juice, and sea salt. Whisk in olive oil to emulsify.
2. Fill a large saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Add a generous amount of sea salt and the farro. Boil for 20 minutes, or until farro is cooked to al dente. Drain, set in a bowl, and toss with half the dressing. 
3. Meanwhile, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Set bacon strips on a paper towel-lined plate. Chop when cool enough to handle. 
4. Pour off all but 1 teaspoon bacon grease and toss in pepitas. Cook over medium heat, shaking skillet gently, until the first few pepitas start to pop. Remove from heat, toss with a big pinch sea salt and the chili powder, and set aside. 
5. Set kale in a medium bowl and toss with remaining dressing and a pinch of sea salt. 
6. To serve, layer dressed farro and kale in a clean bowl. Top with chopped bacon, toasted pepitas, and strawberries. Finish with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately. (Though it's especially delicious warm, this salad will keep well in the fridge for a day or two. Because salt can leech the sweetness, consider adding the strawberries just before serving.)