Warm Barley Salad

My first version of this salad, 2 weekends ago, was good but not great. All the components were there, but it was kind of bland. It definitely had promise though, so I gave it a second go this past weekend. Mmmmmmm......this one turned out just right.

I do apologize for the one lame photo...took this of the first version in a rush to get it on the table for dining companions, then completely spaced taking any photos of the second version. (Also in a rush to get it on the table for dinner guests. I hate to make people wait for me to take photos, but I also hate not having good photos for you. It's a blogger's dilemma:)

Warm Barley Salad

3 sweet potatos, peeled and cut into wedges
3 pears, cored and cut into wedges (peels on!)
1 1/2 cup water
1/2 cup pearled barley
1 cup fresh spinach
2 T fresh rosemary, chopped
2 T fresh parsley, chopped
4 T olive oil
2 T red wine vinegar
6-8 cloves roasted garlic, smashed
2 t salt
fresh ground pepper

-toss cut sweet potatoes in 1 T olive oil, then sprinkle with 1/2 t salt and pepper
-spread in single layer on baking sheet, and pop into preheated 350 degree oven
-toss pears in the same bowl, then add chopped rosemary, 1/2 t salt and pepper
-spread in single layer on baking sheet and pop that in the oven too
-bake these both for 20-25 minutes, until browning and tender
-in the meantime, bring water to boil in medium saucepan
-add barley, reduce heat to medium low
-simmer, stirring often, until liquid is absorbed and barley is tender
-in a small bowl, combine 3 T olive oil, vinegar, garlic and 1 t salt
-add pepper to taste
-pour over warm barley and stir to coat
-add spinach and toss all together
-spoon onto serving platter, then top with roasted sweet potatoes and pears
-serve warm or at room temperature

I served this with big bowls of soup and crusty bread for a hearty vegetarian meal. It could also be served as a substantial side dish for a meaty main. Substitute winter squash for the sweet potatoes, apples for the pears, or any kind of greens for the spinach.....the mix is up to you!