Mediterranean Barley Salad

"This Mediterranean barley salad is fresh, hearty and full of flavor. It's packed with whole grains, chickpeas, veggies and a zesty lemon dressing. It's perfect for meal prep and whether you serve it for lunch, as a side dish with dinner, or bring it to a potluck, it's always a crowd-pleaser. Ingredient Notes The ingredients for the salad are listed fully in the recipe card down below but here we'll briefly cover what you'll need and any optional ingredients and substitutions you can make."

"Barley: The recipe is written for barley farro, quinoa, bulgur, or couscous work just as well. You can also do a mix of whole grains or even use brown rice. Chickpeas: Adds plant-based protein, fiber and heartiness. Fresh vegetables: The salad calls for cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red pepper, and red onion. If you're missing one or don't have the exact amounts it's no problem, this salad is versatile and does not require exact measurements."

"What whole grain works best in this salad? I really like barley in this salad! It's chewy, hearty and absorbs the zesty dressing. My second choice would be farro. If you need a gluten-free salad, try quinoa or brown rice Is this salad vegan and gluten-free? The salad is vegan as written but not gluten-free. To make it gluten-free, substitute quinoa or brown rice for barley."

A Mediterranean barley salad combines chewy whole grains with chickpeas, fresh vegetables, olives, optional sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Barley provides heartiness and soaks up the dressing; farro, quinoa, bulgur, couscous, or brown rice are suitable substitutes. Chickpeas contribute plant-based protein and fiber. The salad uses cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red pepper, and red onion, and quantities are flexible. Parsley and dill add freshness, while basil or mint can substitute. A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon, and vinegar finishes the dish, making it great for meal prep, sides, or potlucks.

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