A few days ago a friend asked me to bring a salad to her evening gathering, and I didn't have time to run to the store for specific ingredients that day.  Instead I decided to make use of what I already had at home.  I came up with this simple salad recipe which worked out perfectly with the other dishes that evening.  Plus it was truly enjoyed by the guests.

I recently purchased barley from the bulk bins of the grocery store not taking into account that barley isn't gluten-free.  Luckily barley doesn't upset my stomach like bread often can, so I’m just planning to use it up in the meantime.  With that said this simple grain is beyond delicious.

What You Will Need…

• 1 cup organic barley

• 2 1/2 cups purified water

• 1 organic avocado

• 1 organic cucumber

• 1/2 cup organic scallion onions

• 1/4 cup organic cilantro

• 3/4 cup organic pomegranate seeds

• sea salt to taste

• 2 tbsp of oil or ghee (optional)

To begin this recipe, I brought the barley to a boil and simmered for 45 minutes.  Feel free to rinse this grain thoroughly before cooking.  While the barley is cooking chop and prepare the other ingredients.  Once cool mix all the ingredients.

This refreshing yet hearty salad works well with so many dishes, or it can be a super light meal on its own.  Just don't feel shy to fill your plate and get seconds or thirds while you're at it.  Adding pomegranate seeds to this salad brings that touch of sweetness and perfect crunch.  You can find a similar gluten-free recipe with quinoa here, and other incredible easy to make healthy organic recipes here.  Definitely let me know your thoughts if you try this!

Much love!

Images by Dawn Michelle