1teaspoondried Italian herb blendOr 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs
Salt to taste
Couple twists pepper
Instructions
For cooking barley and beets (Instant pot PIP method)
Add the rinsed pearl barley to the inner pot of the instant pot. Add in 2 cups of water for coking.
Top the barley with a long leg trivet.
Prick beets several times with the knife to aid cooking. No need to peel or cut into halves.
Place beets in a small IP safe container, fill it with ¼ cup of water , and place it over the trivet.
Secure the lid with a black knob in the sealing position.
Press, Manual mode, time 16 minutes high pressure followed by a natural pressure release.
Once the silver pin drops down, carefully open the lid.
Insert a knife in the beet to check if it is cooked. It should slide in smoothly without any resistance.
Take out that bowl and trivet.
Fluff the barley and let it completely cool before making the salad.
For the dressing
Whisk everything together until combined or shake up everything in a very small jar.
Assemble the salad.
Add the spring mix to a large salad bowl.
Top it with only 1 cup cooked barley, chickpeas, 1 cup cubed cooked beets, oranges, walnuts, and chunks of goat cheese.
Add in the dressing and mix to coat.
Serve immediately.
Notes
Please note that you will need just one beet and 1 cup cooked barley for this recipe.I make a bit extra to use it over the week.You may increase or decrease the quantity of chickpea, beets, fruits to your liking.
Possible substitutes
Use your choice of salad mix or chopped leafy greens.
Swap chickpea for white beans or kidney beans.
Substitute goat cheese with feta or chopped fresh mozzarella.
Add your choice of fruit like sliced apples, strawberries, or anything seasonal instead of oranges. (Don’t use bananas or melon please!)
If vegan, disregard the cheese. Or add dairy-free cheese instead.
Important tips
Cook beet and barley "pot in pot" for efficiency, although not necessary.
Always toss the salad just before eating to prevent it to be soggy.
You may increase or decrease the amount of grain and beans to your liking.