Corn, Zucchini & Barley Salad with Feta & Herbs

Lots of flavour in this one, but not so much as to overwhelm the milder barley, zucchini and corn. There's a nice interplay of textures too, between the chewiness of the barley, the crispness of the corn and the softness of the cheese. 

While this is a substantial salad I'm not quite sure it rises to the level of being a complete meal. Serve it with simple fish or chicken, or as part as an ensemble of salads.

4 servings
1 hour advance prep - 15 minutes working time
20 minutes final assembly time

Cook the Barley & Corn:
1/2 cup raw barley
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups water
2 cobs corn

Put the barley, salt, and 2 cups water into a rice cooker; turn on and cook. Alternatively it can be cooked in a pot on the stove. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and simmer gently until tender and the water is absorbed, about 45 minutes. Watch carefully, especially at the end.

Meanwhile put a large pot of water on to boil for the corn. Husk the corn and boil for 6 to 8 minutes until tender. Rinse in cold water until cool; drain well.

This can be done up to 24 hours in advance, and the barley and corn covered and refrigerated. The corn should be cut from the cobs; you can do this now or when you assemble the salad. 

Make the Dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil
the juice of 1 medium lemon
freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 to 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper

Mix together in a salad bowl. 

Make the Salad:
1 medium zucchini
1/4 cup finely minced parsley
1/4 cup finely minced green onions
1/4 cup finely minced cilantro
1/4 cup finely minced fresh mint
2 tablespoons finely minced fresh dill
100 grams (3 ounces) feta cheese
salt if required

Put the cooled, crumbled barley and corn cut from the cobs into the salad bowl with the dressing. Wash, trim and grate the zucchini and add it as well. Clean, trim, and mince the herbs, and add them. Cut the feta into small dice or crumble it, and add it to the bowl. Toss the salad gently but thoroughly together.




Last year at this time it was Classic Pea Soup Made with Fresh Peas.

Posted in: Ontario Food