Barley salad with almonds and apricots –Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that brings together vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. This Pearl Barley Salad is not only packed with nutrition but also incredibly easy to make. Let’s dive into this delicious dish that’s perfect for lunch or as a side for dinner!
Pearl Barley Salad
This salad is a fantastic combination of textures and tastes, featuring chewy pearl barley, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing. It’s ideal for meal prep or a quick weekday meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the pearl barley under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the pearl barley and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-35 minutes or until the barley is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff the barley with a fork and let it cool.
- While the barley is cooling, prepare your vegetables. Dice the bell pepper, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion and fresh parsley. Set them aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pearl barley with the diced vegetables. Toss everything together gently to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more lemon juice or salt depending on your preference.
- For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to meld with the ingredients beautifully.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this wholesome Pearl Barley Salad as a nutritious meal for yourself or as a crowd-pleasing dish for social gatherings!
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, this recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to your meal repertoire. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful tastes of fresh ingredients!
