Are you tired of boring, bland salads that leave you unsatisfied? Prepare to be amazed by this incredible Radish and Goat Cheese Barley Salad that's about to revolutionize your meal prep! Packed with vibrant flavors, creamy goat cheese, and crisp radishes, this recipe is not just a salad – it's a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress even the pickiest eaters. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, this recipe is your ultimate game-changer!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup barley
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup radishes, sliced
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the barley under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any debris or excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed barley and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the barley simmer for about 30 minutes, or until tender and the water is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the barley is cooking, prepare the radishes. Wash them thoroughly, then slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniformity.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until emulsified to create a dressing.
- Once the barley is cooked, remove it from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Fluff the barley with a fork to separate the grains.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked barley, sliced radishes, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring that all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.
- Serve the salad warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra parsley or goat cheese if desired.
Tips
- Barley Brilliance: Rinse your barley thoroughly to remove excess starch and ensure a fluffy, perfectly cooked texture.
- Slice Like a Pro: Use a sharp mandoline or a very sharp knife to create uniform, thin radish slices that add a beautiful crunch to the salad.
- Dressing Hack: Whisk your olive oil and lemon juice vigorously to create a perfectly emulsified dressing that coats every ingredient evenly.
- Temperature Matters: This salad is versatile – enjoy it warm right after preparation or let it cool to room temperature for a refreshing lunch option.
- Cheese Tip: For an extra creamy texture, let the goat cheese come to room temperature before crumbling into the salad.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to add toasted nuts or swap herbs to make this recipe uniquely yours!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
