warm kale, barley & dried cherry salad

The earthy flavours in this substantial salad are wonderful. As ever, be careful not to overcook the barley.

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SERVES: 4 as a side

PREPARATION: 10 minutes, plus 15 minutes soaking

COOKING: about 30 minutes, depending on the barley

250 g (9 oz/1¼ cups) pearled barley

80 g (2¾ oz) dried cherries

2 tablespoons olive oil

150 g (5½ oz) trimmed (tough stalks removed) kale, shredded

1 small bunch flat-leaf (Italian) parsley, chopped

FOR THE DRESSING

4 tablespoons lemon juice

2 teaspoons dijon mustard

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

sea salt flakes

freshly ground black pepper

Cook the barley following the packet directions until just tender and retaining some bite. Drain, rinse in cold water and spread out on a large plate. Pat dry with paper towels and set aside to cool. Meanwhile, cover the cherries with boiling water and leave to soften for 15 minutes, then drain. Whisk together the dressing ingredients.

Heat the 2 tablespoons olive oil in a frying pan and stir-fry the kale until tender but not completely wilted, about 4 minutes. Add the grains and cherries and cook, stirring, until just warmed through. Remove from the heat and stir through the parsley and the dressing. Taste for seasoning and add more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve warm.