Barley Salad with A Cumin Vinaigrette

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I love barley. It is a very versatlie yet underutilized grain in my opinion. You can make barley soup, barley risotto, barley "oatmeal" for breakfast, barley water  ect... This barley salad is a really nice summery dish that will make you feel good about yourself. Barley is high in fiber and can help lower cholesterol. Cumin is a great earthy spice that also has many health benefits such as aiding in digestion and boosting your immune system. Needless to say this is a healthy and bright dish to add to your summer recipe box! Experiment with different vegetables and ingredients such as feta cheese.

 

Ingredients:

For the salad:

3 1/2 cups of cooked pearl barley (about 1 cup of uncooked pearl barley; cook according to the package's directions)

1 15 oz can of garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed

1/3 cup of celery, minced

1/3 cup of onion, minced

vinaigrette (recipe below)

Mix all of these ingredients together in a medium sized bowl. Taste and adjust the seasonings. This salad is best when served cold or at room temperature. 

For the vinaigrette:

the zest of one lemon

1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/3-1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil 

3 tbs. fresh parsley, minced 

3/4 tsp. ground cumin 

cayenne pepper (to taste)

sea salt 

freshly cracked black pepper 

Whisk all of the ingredients together. Taste to adjust the seasonings. I like acidic dressings but feel free to add more oil.

Happy Eatings!