Ingredients

• 1 cup pearled barley
• Kosher salt
• 2 cups yellow and red cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• 1 small red bell pepper, seeded, ribs removed and diced
• 1 shallot, minced
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Combine the barley, 3 cups water and a pinch salt in a medium-size saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer until the barley is tender, about 45 minutes. Drain in a colander and let cool.
2. Combine the tomatoes, feta, olives, mint, bell pepper and shallots in a bowl. Add the cooled barley.
3. Whisk together the red wine vinegar and olive oil in a separate small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Dress the salad and toss. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator until ready to serve.