FRUIT AND BARLEY SALAD

Fruit and Barley Salad image

Provided by Mercy Polhemus

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 pkg pearl barley, uncooked (16 oz)
1 lb fresh tomatoes, seeded, cut into 1/2" pieces
1 1/2 lb fresh ripe nectarines, pitted cut into 1/2" pieces
1/3 c olive oil, extra virgin
1/2 c lemon juice
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 Tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 c chopped fresh mint
5 green onions, chopped

Steps:

1. Bring 6 cups of water to boil. Add barley and pinch of salt. Bring back to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 50-60 minutes, or until the barley is cooked and liquid has been absorbed. The barley will have a milky consistency. Rinse the barley thoroughly with cold water to chill completely.
2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, sugar, salt, black pepper, and mint together. Mix together nectarines, tomatoes, and green onion in large bowl. Add cooled barley, mixing together. Add the dressing and toss to coat completely. Chill salad. Stir before serving.
3. * Peaches (peeled), mangoes can both be substituted for the nectarines (or a mixture of the three if desired). Have also made the salad using strawberries, halved. Have mixed peaches and strawberries.