Lemon & Herb Cucumber Salad

How about changing up your next boring pasta salad? Try this delightful combination of fresh herbs, cucumber and whole grains!

Barley and farro are a great alternative to pasta because they are chewy and hold up well when dressed. Plus they are both whole grains, so their natural fiber and small amount of fat has not been stripped away. Whole grains allow for more steady absorption of carbohydrates into your body, keeping your blood sugar normal and hunger at bay. Consider substituting farro or barley into your own favorite pasta salad or side dish!

Serves 4

 

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked barley or farro

1 package Persian cucmbers (about 6), sliced

1 cup packed fresh cilantro, chopped

½ cup packed fresh mint leaves, chopped

4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 Tbsp whole grain Dijon mustard

2 cloves garlic, crushed

½ tsp kosher or sea salt

½ tsp cayenne pepper

¼ tsp ground black pepper

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 2 lemons

Tip

The flavors of this salad intensify a little with time, but the ingredients hold up well in the fridge for a day or two in case you love leftovers like I do!