Fiesta Barley Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup pearl barley*
• 3 cups water
• 1/4 cup raisins, or other dried fruit
• 1 cup frozen peas, or other vegetables (fresh, frozen or canned and drained)
• 3 cups chopped lettuce
• 1 can (15 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1/2 cup sliced green onion (try any type of onion)
• 1 Tablespoon vinegar (rice vinegar or any others)
• 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions

1. Wash hands with soap and water.
2. Place barley and water in a 2 to 3 quart saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and simmer until barley is tender, about 45 to 60 minutes.**
3. Rinse cooked barley in cold water for a short time. Drain and put into a large bowl.
4. Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes:

• Try substituting different fruits and vegetables.
• *Pearl barley is high in fiber but is not a whole grain. If using whole grain barley (also called hulled barley), add 20 to 30 minutes to the cooking time.
• **If you have barley that is already cooked, measure about 3 1/2 cups into a bowl and continue with step 3.