Vibrant Roasted Vegetable and Barley Salad with a Feta-Herb Dressing
This vibrant roasted vegetable and barley salad is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. It's packed with flavor and nutrients, and it's easy to make. The roasted vegetables are tender and flavorful, and the barley adds a chewy texture and a nutty flavor. The feta-herb dressing adds a bright and tangy flavor that ties everything together.
I first came up with this recipe when I was looking for a way to use up some leftover roasted vegetables. I had roasted a bunch of zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion, and I didn't want to just eat them plain. I decided to add some barley and feta cheese, and the result was this delicious salad. I've been making it ever since, and it's always a hit with my friends and family.
Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 cup pearl barley
2 cups vegetable broth
1 zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 cup red onion, chopped
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Toss to coat and spread on a baking sheet.
Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
While the vegetables are roasting, cook the barley according to package directions.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and feta cheese.
Combine the roasted vegetables, cooked barley, and feta-herb dressing in a large bowl.
Toss to coat and serve.
Why It Works
The roasting process intensifies the flavor of the vegetables and gives them a slightly caramelized exterior.
The barley adds a chewy texture and a nutty flavor to the salad.
The feta-herb dressing adds a bright and tangy flavor that ties everything together.
This salad is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables.
It's packed with flavor and nutrients.
It's easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences.