Greek Barley Salad

This salad has all the flavours of a Greek Salad with the additional of barley for added taste and nutrition. It could also be made with Quinoa.

There are so many delicious whole grains to try why not add them to your favorite salad.

You will need:

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1/2 onion chopped fine
• 1 clove garlic- crushed
• 2 cups water or broth.
• 2-4 mini English cucumbers
• 1 tomato chopped 
• 1/4 cup sliced red onion
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 lemon juiced
• 1 tsp fresh mint
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped fine
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tbsp olive tapenade or black olives chopped
• 2 tbsp red wine or sherry vinegar
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• salt and pepper

Step 1: saute 1/2 onion in small pot until starting to brown (few minutes) add barley and garlic. Continue to cook for 2 minutes. 

Step 2: add water or broth, stir and allow to come to a boil. Once it comes to a boil reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 25 minutes until water has absorbed and barley is cooked. Put cooked barley in a medium bowl to cool while you get all remaining ingredients ready.

Step 3: chop cucumbers, onions tomatoes and fresh herbs.Add to bowl as you prepare.  Add lemon zest , lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano salt and pepper. Sprinkle with feta and olives.Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve at room temperature or chill until ready to serve. 

You can add a piece of grilled chicken or just enjoy on its own.