Looking for a cozy way to pack in whole grains and greens? This warm barley salad is your new go-to barley recipe for nourishing comfort in a bowl. Nutty, tender barley mingles with massaged kale, sweet apples, tart cranberries and toasty pecans for a medley of textures that feels like fall and freshness all at once. The tangy-sweet dressing — featuring apple cider vinegar and a hint of maple — ties everything together in the most satisfying way. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main but also shines as a colorful side. Plus, this plant-based beauty delivers fiber, vitamins and good fats that’ll leave you feeling full and fueled. It’s a simple recipe with down-to-earth ingredients that proves wholesome eating can be every bit as comforting as it is delicious.

Warm Barley, Kale & Apple Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley rinsed
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups kale stemmed and chopped
- 1 crisp apple diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil divided
- 1 Tbsp. Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar Blend Organic Cranberry Apple
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp. maple syrup or honey
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
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In medium pot, bring broth to boil. Add barley, reduce to simmer, cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, until tender. Drain any excess liquid.
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While barley cooks, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spread pecans on baking sheet and roast 7-8 minutes, until fragrant. Let cool slightly, then roughly chop.
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Place chopped kale in large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tsp. olive oil and pinch of salt, then massage with hands for 1-2 minutes, until leaves darken and soften.
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In small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), salt and pepper.
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Add warm barley to bowl with kale. Toss to combine. Mix in diced apple, dried cranberries and roasted pecans. Drizzle on dressing and toss gently until evenly coated.




