Get ready to elevate your culinary skills with a mouthwatering wheat berry and barley salad that's about to become your new obsession! This isn't just another boring salad - it's a symphony of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. Imagine a perfect blend of hearty whole grains, smoky mozzarella, and fresh basil, all brought together with a tantalizing balsamic dressing that will have everyone begging for your recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup wheat berries
- 1 cup barley
- 1 cup smoked mozzarella, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse wheat berries and barley thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris.
- In separate medium saucepans, cook wheat berries and barley. For wheat berries, use 3 cups of water per cup of grain and simmer for approximately 45-50 minutes until tender but still chewy. For barley, use 3 cups of water and cook for about 35-40 minutes until soft.
- Drain both grains completely in a colander and allow to cool to room temperature. Spread grains on a large baking sheet to help them cool faster and prevent clumping.
- While grains are cooling, halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the smoked mozzarella into small, uniform cubes.
- Chop fresh basil leaves finely, ensuring they are evenly cut to distribute flavor throughout the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled wheat berries and barley, diced smoked mozzarella, and cherry tomato halves.
- Create the dressing by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl until well emulsified.
- Pour the dressing over the grain mixture and gently fold to ensure even coating and distribution of ingredients.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the salad and gently mix to incorporate.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Rinse your grains thoroughly to remove any excess starch and ensure a clean, pure flavor.
- Cook wheat berries and barley separately to maintain their individual textures and prevent overcooking.
- Spread the cooked grains on a baking sheet to cool quickly and prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Use high-quality smoked mozzarella for an extra depth of flavor that will make this salad truly memorable.
- Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- For best results, use fresh basil and cut it just before adding to the salad to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding additional vegetables or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
