Barley And Black Bean Salad Recipe

Vibrant and hearty, this Barley and Black Bean Salad is bursting with fresh flavors! Perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution. Make it ahead – the flavors meld beautifully overnight – and add the avocado just before serving for optimal freshness. Get ready for a delicious and healthy meal prep winner!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 50 mins
Calories 200.2 kcal
Protein 13g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Barley And Black Bean Salad 14

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Barley And Black Bean Salad

  • Cooked Barley
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • Frozen Corn
  • Diced Tomatoes
  • Frozen Peas
  • Fresh Cilantro
  • 1 ripe avocado (diced)
  • ½ cup water
  • ¼ cup lime juice (about 1 large lime)
  • Olive Oil
  • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Barley And Black Bean Salad

  1. Cook 1 cup of barley according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside to cool completely.
  2. While the barley cooks, prepare the dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine ½ cup water, ¼ cup lime juice (about 1 large lime), ⅓ cup olive oil, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled barley, 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (rinsed and drained), 1 cup frozen corn (thawed), 1 cup chopped tomatoes, ½ cup frozen peas (thawed), ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 ripe avocado (diced – add just before serving to prevent browning).
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Add the diced avocado right before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

5 g

Sugar

6g

Fat

3g

Carbs

12g