Hearty Barley Salad
1 1/2 cups pearl barley
2 tsp. salt
2 cups sliced in two, grape tomatoes
1/4 red onion, small dice
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup chopped parsley
Half of a red, yellow and orange bell pepper, diced
Combine 4 cups of water and the barley. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover and simmer on medium low heat until barley is almost tender. Stir in 2 tsp salt and continue to cook until tender. Drain well; set aside to cool.
Toss in the remaining ingredients.
Dressing:
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 shallots , chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tsp. black pepper
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
Salt to taste
Combine all the ingredients and whisk until emulsified. Toss with the barley mixture.