Barley Salad with Spinach and Strawberries

Salad
- 1 cup dry pearl or pot barley (250 mL)
- 4 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped (1 L)
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped (1)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (2)
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved (500 mL)
- 1/2 cup soft goat cheese (125 mL )
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted (75 mL)
Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup canola oil (60 mL)
- 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (45 mL)
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup (30 mL)
- 1 tsp grainy mustard (5 mL)
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper (1 mL)
Salad
1. Bring large saucepan of water to a boil, add barley and cook for 40-45 minutes or until tender. Then drain well, running under cool water to stop grains from cooking, and transfer to wide, shallow serving bowl.
2. Set aside to cool completely. Add spinach, celery and onions to cooled barley and toss gently to combine. Sprinkle with strawberries, goat cheese and pecans.
Vinaigrette
1. To make vinaigrette, in medium bowl or small jar, whisk or shake together all ingredients. Pour over salad and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Analysis