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Lemony Broccoli, Barley and Bean Salad in white serving bowl with serving spoon.
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4.86 from 7 votes

Lemony Broccoli Barley and White Bean Salad

Bright, fresh, and packed with texture, this Lemony Broccoli Barley and White Bean Salad is a healthy, make-ahead favorite! Nutty barley, tender broccoli, and creamy white beans are tossed in a zesty lemon dressing for a protein-packed, fiber-rich salad that’s perfect for meal prep, easy lunches, or a light dinner.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Side Dishes - Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Diabetic, Low Calorie, Low Fat, Vegetarian
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Salt
  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 1 can (15-ounce) cannellini beans (white kidney beans) or Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 large bunch broccoli heads and tender stems coarsely chopped (reserve stems for another use)
  • 1/2 small red onion cut into slivers
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped Kalamata olives
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the barley and boil approximately 15-18 minutes or until barley is cooked but still al dente.
  • Drain in a sieve and rinse with cold water. Drain again and set aside.
  • Combine beans, broccoli, red onion, parsley and Kalamata olives in a mixing bowl. Add drained and cooled barley.
  • Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil and garlic. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
  • Pour dressing over salad and mix well.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

SUBSTITUTIONS:
  • Can use brown rice, quinoa or farro in place of barley.
MAKE AHEAD:
  • Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Add dressing when ready to serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 506kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 22g | Sodium: 324mg | Potassium: 716mg | Fiber: 13g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1658IU | Vitamin C: 155mg | Calcium: 113mg | Iron: 3mg