Broccoli and Pearl Barley Salad

Preparation time | 20 minutes

Cooking time | 35 minutes

1. Rinse the barley in a strainer under cool water. Drain and place in a saucepan, Cover with 2 cups of cold water. Bring toa boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer very gently until most of the water has been absorbed and the grains are tender but still firm, about 30 minutes, Drain the barley well.

2. While the barley is cooking, bring a second pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets, zucchini, and peas, and bring back to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer the vegetables until they are just tender but still crisp, about 34 minutes, then drain well and rinse briefly with cold water.

3, Whisk all dressing ingredients together in a large bowl. Stir in the apricots. Add the barley and vegetables as soon as they are cooked, and mix well to coat with the dressing, Cover and allow to cool until just warm.

4. Add the pumpkin seeds just before serving, and salt and pepper to taste,

Some more ideas | 

• Other grains to try in this salad include quinoa or buckwheat, both available from natural food stores. Prepare these grains according to the package instructions,

Each serving provides | Caries 25/, fat 45 rated tat 1 Cholesterol O mn. Sothum 2 n abohydrates 4 o fiber 1) g. protein 14g