Ingredients and Weight:
- Barley - 1 cup, cooked
- Almonds - 1/2 cup, sliced
- Apricots - 1/2 cup, dried and chopped
- Mixed Greens - 8 cups
- Red Onion - 1/2 cup, chopped
- Feta Cheese - 1/2 cup, crumbled
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil - 3 tbsp
- Balsamic Vinegar - 2 tbsp
- Salt and Pepper - to taste
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 10 minutes (for barley)
- Total: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare the barley by cooking it according to package instructions. Let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked barley, almonds, apricots, mixed greens, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the salad and serve.
Nutritional Information:
(Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: 250 per serving (estimate)
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 5g
Dish Characteristics:
- Creative blend of flavors with sweet, sour, and salty components.
- Hearty barley combined with crunchy almonds and dried apricots for a unique texture.
- Feta cheese adds a rich and creamy element.
User Comments:
- "This salad is amazing! The combination of flavors is so unique and refreshing."
- "I love the crunchiness of the almonds and the sweetness of the apricots in this salad."
- "This is a great dish for a light meal or as a side. The dressing is really delicious."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use fresh ingredients for best results.
- Adjust the seasoning, including salt and vinegar, according to taste.
- If you prefer a more creamy dressing, you can add a tablespoon of yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing ingredients.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or poultry.
