Lemon Barley Pilaf
Brighten up your table with this zesty and wholesome Lemon Barley Pilaf, a vibrant dish that combines the nutty goodness of pearl barley with the fresh tang of lemon and fragrant herbs. Simmered in vegetable broth for rich depth, this pilaf is infused with the flavors of sautéed onion and garlic, then elevated with a burst of fresh parsley and dill. Finished with the sunny notes of lemon zest and juice, this dish is as refreshing as it is satisfying. Customize it with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or almonds for added crunch, making it a versatile option as a healthy side dish or a light vegetarian main course. Ready in just 45 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a hearty yet refreshing addition to their weekly meals.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 2.5 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium, diced yellow onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 0.25 cup, chopped fresh parsley
- 0.25 cup, chopped fresh dill
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup optional toasted pine nuts or almonds
Instructions
Rinse the pearl barley under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain well.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the pearl barley to the saucepan and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it in the oil.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the barley is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow any remaining liquid to absorb.
Fluff the barley with a fork. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and chopped dill.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. For added texture and flavor, top with toasted pine nuts or almonds, if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish, or enjoy it as a light vegetarian main course.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
256 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.5 g | 19% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.8 g | 9% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 602 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.9 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.9 g | 18% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.1 g | ||
| Protein | 5.7 g | 11% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 51 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 471 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
