Savory Turkey Barley Salad with Mandarin Oranges and Sesame

Turkey Barley Sesame Salad

Description:

This Turkey Barley Sesame Salad is a deliciously hearty and nutritious main dish salad that creatively utilizes leftover poultry. A vibrant combination of tender pearl barley, juicy mandarin oranges, crisp celery, and fresh green onions is tossed together with succulent turkey pieces. Drizzled with a flavorful dressing and garnished with toasted sliced almonds, this salad is both satisfying and full of flavor. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal, this recipe highlights how you can transform simple ingredients into a refreshing and balanced dish.

Prep Time:

45 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour

Servings:

4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pearl barley: This whole grain provides a chewy texture and nutty flavor, making it a hearty base for the salad.
• 4 – 5 mandarin oranges: These add a burst of sweetness and a juicy element to the salad.
• 3 1/2 cups cooked turkey: Ideal for using up leftover poultry, giving the salad a satisfying protein boost.
• 1 cup chopped celery: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch.
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions: For a touch of sharpness and color.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Toasted to bring a nutty flavor to the salad.
• 1/2 cup salad dressing of your choice: Use your favorite light dressing to add flavor while keeping it healthy.
• Toasted sliced almonds (optional): For added crunch and a touch of elegance.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pearl Barley:

   • In a medium saucepan with a lid, bring 3 cups of water to a boil.
   • Add 1 cup of pearl barley to the boiling water. Allow the water to return to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
   • Once cooked, you should have approximately 3 cups of barley. For any extra barley, store it in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze. It will keep well for up to a week. When ready to use, simply thaw and add to soups, stews, salads, or casseroles for an extra boost of flavor and fiber.

2. Prepare the Salad:

   • Drizzle your chosen salad dressing over the hot, cooked barley, and toss gently to coat the barley evenly with the dressing.
   • Cover the barley and place it in the refrigerator until it has cooled down.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • Drain the mandarin oranges, reserving 2 tablespoons of the orange juice.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mandarin oranges, the reserved orange juice, the cooled barley, chopped turkey, celery, and green onions. Toss everything together gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Serve the Salad:

   • Arrange a bed of salad greens on four dinner plates.
   • Mound the barley and turkey mixture over the greens on each plate.
   • If desired, sprinkle each serving with toasted sliced almonds for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 520.9
• Fat: 5.7g
• Saturated Fat: 1.6g
• Cholesterol: 49mg
• Sodium: 193.5mg
• Carbohydrates: 93.1g
• Fiber: 18.2g
• Sugar: 11.4g
• Protein: 27.7g

This Turkey Barley Sesame Salad not only makes for a satisfying meal but also showcases how versatile barley and leftover turkey can be. Its combination of flavors and textures will delight your taste buds while keeping your meal light and nutritious. Enjoy! 🌟🥗🍊