Barley, Corn, and Cherry Tomato Salad
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Description:
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Barley, Corn, and Cherry Tomato Salad, a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. Perfect for potlucks, camping trips, or simply enjoying at home, this dish combines the wholesome goodness of grains with the freshness of vegetables, making it both nutritious and kid-friendly. Experience the burst of flavors while nourishing your body, and share this recipe from lovewithrecipes.com with your loved ones.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Barley | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| White wine vinegar | ⅓ cup |
| Basil leaves | 1 ½ cups |
| Olive oil | ½ cup |
| Corn kernels | 3 cups |
| Cherry tomatoes | 2 cups |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 288.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 243.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 41.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.1 g |
| Sugars | 2.7 g |
| Protein | 7.2 g |
Instructions
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Cook the Barley: Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, adding in the salt to enhance the flavor. Carefully introduce the barley, ensuring it is fully submerged. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for approximately 40 minutes, or until the grains are tender yet still chewy.
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Prepare the Barley: Once the barley is cooked to perfection, drain it in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Let it drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture, ensuring the salad doesn’t become watery.
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Make the Dressing: In a blender, combine the white wine vinegar, fresh basil leaves, and olive oil. Blend the mixture until it is smooth and emulsified, adding salt to taste. This dressing will infuse the salad with a delightful flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
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Combine the Salad: In a very large mixing bowl, toss the cooled barley with the freshly blended dressing. Gently fold in the corn kernels, allowing their sweetness to meld with the other flavors, followed by the cherry tomatoes. Be careful not to crush the tomatoes, as their vibrant color and freshness are key to the salad’s appeal.
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Chill and Serve: Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This resting period allows the flavors to develop further. For optimal freshness, consider preparing the salad up to 1 day in advance; however, add the cherry tomatoes just before serving to maintain their integrity and bright appearance.
This Barley, Corn, and Cherry Tomato Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients and vibrant tastes, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer picnic, serving it as a side dish for a family dinner, or bringing it to your next potluck, this salad is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy the delightful medley of flavors and the satisfaction of sharing a nutritious meal with those you cherish.
