Barley Salad with Parsley and Walnuts

• Recipe by Grace Parisi

Barley is versatile enough to be served warm or at room temperature, as in this terrific salad with walnuts, parsley and salty bits of ricotta salata cheese in a lemon-garlic vinaigrette. It can be served as a main course or as a side for grilled chicken or pork.

Ingredients

1. 1 1/4 cups pearled barley (9 ounces)
2. 1 cup walnut halves (4 ounces)
3. 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4. 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
5. 1 garlic clove, minced
6. 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
7. Salt and freshly ground pepper
8. 1 cup packed flat-leaf parsley leaves
9. 4 ounces ricotta salata, crumbled (about 1 cup)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°. In a large saucepan of boiling salted water, cook the barley over high heat until tender, about 25 minutes. Drain the barley and rinse under cold water to cool thoroughly. Drain again, shaking out the excess water.
2. Meanwhile, spread the walnuts in a pie plate and toast for 10 to 12 minutes, until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a cutting board and let cool. Coarsely chop the nuts.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the lemon juice with the olive oil, garlic and lemon zest and season with salt and pepper. Add the barley, parsley and ricotta salata and toss gently. Add the toasted walnuts, toss again and serve.

Make Ahead

The salad can be refrigerated overnight.