Barley is the oldest member of the grass family grown in temperature climates globally and is known to be the oldest cereal grain. This grain has a chewy texture and has a nutty flavor and can be interchanged with rice in many dishes. Barley has a lot of amazing health benefits as it is rich in many nutrients, ranging from improved digestion to lower cholesterol levels and a healthier heart and is also high in protein and fiber. It does take a little longer to cook on the stovetop, but can be prepared in your Instant Pot in 25 minutes. Since it stores well you can easily make it part of your meal preparation. It’s inexpensive, readily available, and can be used in soups, salads or with curries. It will keep you full for hours. I even enjoy it as a cereal with milk and berries and chia seeds. The choices are endless!!

This Mediterranean Barley Salad is packed with protein, healthy fats and flavor. You can certainly add olives and cucumbers to this salad to add crunch, but I decided to keep it simple and yummy! The beauty of this salad is that it can be eaten as a main dish or you can add a piece of chicken or a piece of fish (think seabass), or tofu and enjoy it as a side salad.