Pearl Barley with Roasted Squash, Pomegranate, and Pistachios

Pomegranate seeds add tiny bursts of sweet-tart juiciness when stirred into grain dishes.

Photo: Pornchai Mittongtare

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Pomegranate seeds add tiny bursts of sweet-tart juiciness when stirred into grain dishes.

Servings
6

Ingredients

  • 3 Tbs. olive oil, divided
  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 1 1/2 lb. butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch x 1-inch chunks (4 cups)
  • 1 small sweet onion, peeled and finely diced (1 cup)
  • 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
  • 2 Tbs. finely chopped parsley
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1/3 cup roasted pistachios

Preparation

1. Heat 1 Tbs. oil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add barley, and cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until slightly toasted. Pour in 21/4 cups water, and bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook 45 to 55 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and grains are cooked. (If barley is not completely cooked, add a little more water and continue simmering until tender.) Pour barley out onto cooking-spray-coated baking sheet, and let cool to room temperature. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

2. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line second baking sheet with parchment paper, or coat with cooking spray. Toss squash with 1 Tbs. oil on baking sheet until evenly coated, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Roast 35 to 40 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally.

3. Heat remaining 1 Tbs. oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, and cook 7 to 9 minutes, or until translucent. Add red pepper flakes, and cook 1 minute more. Add barley, and cook 3 to 5 minutes, or until warmed through. Stir in roasted squash and parsley, and cook 2 minutes more. Remove from heat; stir in pomegranate seeds and pistachios. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories 273
  • Carbohydrate Content 42 g
  • Cholesterol Content 0 mg
  • Fat Content 11 g
  • Fiber Content 10 g
  • Protein Content 6 g
  • Saturated Fat Content 1 g
  • Sodium Content 9 mg
  • Sugar Content 5 g