Looking for a refreshing dish that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor? Dive into the delightful world of Rachel's Barley Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumbers, and Parsley! This vibrant salad is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy family dinner. With its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing, this recipe will have your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds. Don’t miss out on discovering how to create this sensational dish that’s sure to impress!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup barley
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the barley under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove any dust or impurities. This step is essential for achieving a clean flavor.
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed barley and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the barley simmer for about 30 minutes, or until it is tender and has absorbed most of the water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the barley is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Dice the cucumber and add it to the bowl with the cherry tomatoes. The fresh crunch of the cucumber will complement the softness of the barley.
- Chop the fresh parsley finely and add it to the mixing bowl. This will add a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the salad.
- Once the barley is cooked, remove it from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
- Add the cooled barley to the bowl with the vegetables. Gently mix everything together to combine the flavors.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice until well combined. This will serve as your dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the barley and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This resting time enhances the overall taste.
- Before serving, give the salad one last gentle toss. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Serve the barley salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious dish as a side or a light main course!
Tips
- Rinse the Barley: Always rinse your barley thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or impurities, ensuring a clean and delicious flavor in your salad.
- Perfect Cooking: Keep an eye on the barley as it cooks. Stir occasionally and check for tenderness to avoid overcooking. You want it to be soft but still have a slight chew.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes after mixing in the dressing. This resting period helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and color. This salad is versatile and can be tailored to your preferences!
- Dress It Up: For an extra zing, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of your favorite herbs to the dressing. Experimenting with flavors can make this dish uniquely yours!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
