Appetizers & Starters > Salads & Cold Starters > Grain & Legume Salads > Barley and Vegetable Salad

Spiced Barley Salad with Roasted Vegetables

A warm and flavorful salad featuring roasted root vegetables, aromatic spices, and hearty barley. A delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
55 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 1 cup Pearled Barley
  • 3 cups Water
  • 2 medium, peeled and diced Carrots
  • 1 medium, peeled and diced Sweet Potato
  • 1 cup, peeled, seeded and diced Butternut Squash
  • 1 medium, cut into wedges Red Onion
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste Black Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup
  • 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh Cilantro
  • 1/4 cup Dried Cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons Toasted Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds)

Cooking the Barley

In a medium saucepan, combine the pearled barley and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Roasting the Vegetables

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the diced carrots, sweet potato, butternut squash, and red onion wedges with olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.

Making the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and maple syrup.

Assembling the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked barley, roasted vegetables, dried cranberries and dressing. Toss gently to combine.

Serving

Garnish with fresh cilantro and toasted pepitas. Serve warm or at room temperature.

FAQ

  • Can I use other root vegetables?

    Yes, parsnips, turnips, or beets would also be delicious in this salad.
  • Can I add other spices?

    Feel free to experiment with other warming spices such as ginger or cardamom.
  • Can I use a different sweetener?

    Agave nectar or honey can be used in place of maple syrup.
  • How long will the Roasted Vegetables keep in the fridge?

    Roasted vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.