Savory Salmon Barley Pilaf with Herbs
This delicious and nutritious Salmon Barley Pilaf combines the rich flavors of canned salmon with the nuttiness of pearl barley, all elevated by a tangy vinegar dressing. Packed with vegetables, this dish is not only hearty but is also low in cholesterol, making it a healthier alternative to traditional salads. Perfect for a light lunch or a picnic, it can be served warm or chilled. The vibrant herbs add freshness, while the savory depth of the dish will satisfy your taste buds in the most delightful way.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
onion
1 (finely chopped)
carrot
1 (finely chopped)
celery
1 (finely chopped)
canned salmon
2 (6 ounce) cans (drained)
pearl barley
1 cup (none)
rice wine or balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup (none)
cilantro or parsley
as much as desired (minced)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a 6-quart oven-proof casserole, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3
Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the casserole. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, stirring constantly.
4
Gently add the drained canned salmon to the casserole, breaking it up slightly with a fork. Mix well with the sautéed vegetables.
5
Stir in the pearl barley, rice wine or balsamic vinegar, minced cilantro or parsley, and pepper to taste. Pour in 2 cups of water and mix until combined.
6
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the casserole and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7
Bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the barley is tender.
8
Remove from the oven, fluff with a fork, and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Salmon Barley Pilaf with Herbs?
It is a nutritious dish that combines canned salmon with pearl barley, vegetables, and a tangy vinegar dressing.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it is low in cholesterol and packed with nutritious vegetables and pearl barley.
What type of salmon should I use?
The recipe calls for two 6-ounce cans of salmon, which should be drained before use.
What type of barley is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses pearl barley for its nutty flavor and texture.
How should the salmon be prepared?
The canned salmon should be drained and gently broken up with a fork before being mixed with the vegetables.
What vegetables are included in this pilaf?
The dish includes finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking the pilaf.
How much olive oil is needed?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing the vegetables.
How long should I sauté the vegetables?
Sauté the onion, carrot, and celery for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Can I use different types of vinegar?
Yes, you can use either 1/4 cup of rice wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar.
What herbs are used in this dish?
The recipe uses minced cilantro or parsley as desired for freshness.
How much water is added to the barley?
You should pour in 2 cups of water to cook the barley.
What size casserole dish is needed?
A 6-quart oven-proof casserole is recommended for this recipe.
How long does the pilaf bake?
The pilaf should bake for approximately 45 minutes.
How do I know when the pilaf is done?
It is ready when the liquid is fully absorbed and the barley is tender.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, this pilaf can be served either warm or chilled.
Is this recipe suitable for a picnic?
Absolutely, its versatility in serving temperature makes it perfect for picnics.
How should I finish the dish after baking?
Remove it from the oven, fluff with a fork, and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The exact serving size is not specified, but the recipe uses 1 cup of dry barley and 12 ounces of salmon.
Can I add more pepper?
Yes, pepper should be added to taste according to your preference.
What is the texture of pearl barley?
Pearl barley has a pleasant, nutty flavor and a chewy, tender texture.
Is this a good light lunch option?
Yes, it is described as a hearty yet light lunch alternative to traditional salads.
How much vinegar is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of rice wine or balsamic vinegar.
Should the casserole be covered while baking?
Yes, the casserole should be covered before being transferred to the oven.
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
While the recipe specifies canned salmon, cooked fresh salmon can be used as a substitute.
What should the onions look like after sautéing?
The onions should be translucent and the vegetables should be tender.
Can I garnish the dish?
Yes, you can garnish with additional minced herbs like cilantro or parsley if desired.
Is there salt in the recipe?
The recipe specifically mentions pepper to taste; salt is not listed as a primary ingredient but can be added if desired.
How many cans of salmon are needed?
The recipe requires two 6-ounce cans of salmon.
How much pearl barley is used?
The recipe uses 1 cup of pearl barley.