This delicious dish is a great way to enjoy barley and feta cheese with a burst of flavor. The combination of garlic, basil, and lemon give the barley a unique and refreshing taste. The goat’s milk feta adds a creamy texture to the meal. Serve this hearty dish for lunch or dinner with a side salad and enjoy!
Ingredients used:
For 4 people
- 1 tablespoon - Canola oil
- 1 small - White onions (minced)
- 1 clove - Garlic (minced)
- 1 medium - Lemon (grated zest)
- 1.5 cups - Pearl barley
- 1 teaspoon - Salt
- 1 - Dried bay leaf
- 3 cups - Nonfat chicken broth (heated and divided)
- 2 tablespoons - Grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup - Loosely packed chopped fresh basil
- 1 medium - Lemon (juice of)
- 0.25 cup - Crumbled goat's milk feta
- 0.25 cup - Chopped fresh parsley
Recipe steps:
- In a large saucepan, warm oil over medium heat and sautée onion, garlic and lemon zest for 1 minute, making sure it doesn't brown.
- Add barley, salt and bay leaf. Stir in 1/2 cup hot stock. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until stock is absorbed, 3-5 minutes.
- Repeat, adding 1/2 cup stock at a time, until all stock is absorbed and barley is al dente, or tender but firm.
- Remove from heat and add Parmesan, basil and lemon juice. Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Divide between 4 plates and serve hot, topped with feta and parsley.
Pearl barley is an underrated grain that pairs perfectly with flavors like garlic, basil, and lemon. Topped with goat’s milk feta, this dish is an easy and quick meal that won’t disappoint. Enjoy it with a side salad and savor each bite!
