Barley and Corn Salad with Basil Chive Dressing

From the kitchen of Carly

Tender barley and sweet corn come together in this light, herbaceous salad. The basil-chive dressing is bright and grassy, coating each grain with fresh flavor. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch that tastes even better the next day.

Prep
n/a
Cook
n/a
Total
n/a
Servings
4
Difficulty
medium

Ingredients

4 servings

  • 12 cups plus 1 tablespoon water
  • 13/4 teaspoon salt
  • 11 cup quick-cooking barley
  • 12 cups corn (from about 4 ears)
  • 11/3 cup olive oil
  • 11/3 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 13 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 11 1/2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
  • 11/4 teaspoon sugar
  • 11/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 13 Belgian endives (about 1 lb total)
  • 1trimmed and sliced crosswise 1/2 inch thick

Instructions

  1. Bring 2 cups water with 1/4 teaspoon salt to a boil in a 1 1/2-quart saucepan. Stir in barley, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until barley is tender, about 10 minutes.

  2. While barley simmers, blanch corn in a 1 1/2- to 2 1/2-quart saucepan of boiling water 1 minute, then drain in a large sieve and rinse under cold running water to stop cooking. Drain again and pat dry, then transfer to a large bowl.

  3. Remove barley from heat (when tender) and let stand, covered, 5 minutes.

  4. While barley stands, pulse oil, basil, chives, vinegar, sugar, pepper, remaining tablespoon water, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt in a blender until herbs are finely chopped.

  5. Drain barley well in large sieve and add to corn in bowl, then add endives and dressing, tossing to combine.