In a cozy little kitchen filled with the aroma of spices and fresh produce, I stumbled upon the idea of this delightful salad while exploring the health benefits of ancient grains. One sunny afternoon, I decided to host a casual gathering with friends, and I wanted to serve something that not only looked vibrant but also packed a punch of flavor and nutrition. This salad, with its medley of textures and tastes, became the star of the show.
As we sat around the table, laughter and stories flowed as freely as the dressing I drizzled over the colorful grains and vegetables. The ancient grains, rich in history and nutrients, reminded us of the power of food to bring people together. So, let me share this delightful recipe that celebrates the goodness of ancient grains!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup cooked farro
1 cup cooked barley
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Citrus Vinaigrette:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by preparing the ancient grains according to package instructions. Ensure they are fluffy and cooked through, allowing them to cool slightly. This combination of quinoa, farro, and barley creates a hearty base for the salad, providing a delightful chewiness that enhances each bite.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa, farro, and barley. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese if you choose to include it. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, allowing the ingredients to sing together harmoniously.
Next, prepare the citrus vinaigrette by whisking together the olive oil, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the sweetness or acidity according to your preference. This vinaigrette brings a refreshing brightness to the salad, balancing the earthiness of the grains beautifully.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Allow the salad to sit for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious. Serve it in a large bowl or individual plates, garnishing with a few extra parsley leaves for a pop of color.
As you take your first bite, let the vibrant flavors transport you to that sunny afternoon with friends, where food became a celebration of life and connection. Enjoy your ancient grains salad with citrus vinaigrette as a side dish or a light main course. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that nourishes both body and soul.