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 mins
Cook Time20 minutes mins
Total Time35 minutes mins
Course: Side Dishes - Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Diabetic, Low Calorie, Low Fat, Vegetarian
Servings: 4
- 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
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.
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.
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