What’s a wheat berry?
Remember that time back in 5th grade, when you entered that gum-chewing marathon, and you tried to fit a whole roll of Bubble Tape in your mouth? And remember how your jaw felt afterwards? A wheat berry is a grain that’ll bring that same sensation, that is, if you’re eating a large bowl like I’ve opted for here.
This dish is a bit of a jaw workout — but like any good workout, one that’s oh so worth it, packed full of summer’s best flavors.
Packed with tomatoes, cukes, and herbs, this dish is light and fresh, and plays well to the heartiness of wheat berries. Feel free to play around with the combination of herbs, depending on what’s available to you!
Toasted Wheat Berry and Summer Herb Salad
- August 7, 2014
- Serves 4
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Ingredients
- 1 cup dry wheat berries, toasted
- 1 thin-skinned cucumber (or 1/2 long English cucumber), chopped
- 3/4 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 scallions/green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup minced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley (you'll need about 3/4 of a bunch)
- 1/3 cup chopped purple basil
- 1/4 cup chopped oregano
- 2 medium lemons, zested and juiced
- 1 scant tsp. salt, plus more for wheat berries
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup almonds, chopped then toasted
Directions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to to 400F. Line baking sheet with aluminum foil, and spread wheat berries on top in a single layer. Toast in the oven for 10 minutes, until slightly browned and aromatic, shaking halfway through.
- Step 2
- Then, transfer to a pot and add 3 cups of water plus a generous pinch of salt. Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, remove lid, and continue to simmer 10-15 minutes, until water is absorbed and berries are chewy and no longer tough. Remove from heat, and transfer to a large bowl.
- Step 3
- Toss with remaining ingredients, excluding the almonds. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with toasted almonds. Serve.
