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Wheat Berry Salad with Bacon and Peas
Nutrients per serving
  • Protein: 13.0 grams
  • Fat: 10.0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 55.0 grams
  • Calories: 362

Peas

Wheat Berry Salad with Bacon and Peas

Wheat berries -- or 'softened wheat kernels' -- are a tasty and economical change from rice or pasta; look for them in bulk food stores. Cook a larger quantity than needed -- then just drain and freeze for an easy meal another day.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1-1/2 hours
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
  • 1 cup (250 mL) wheat berries, rinsed
  • 1 cup (250 mL) Ontario peas
  • 8 oz (250 g) slab smoked bacon, approx 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick, or spicy sausage such as kielbasa or chorizo
  • 3 tbsp (45 mL) lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) Ontario Liquid Honey
  • 1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) hot pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup (125 mL) chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup (50 mL) chopped fresh mint or 1/2 cup (125 mL) chopped fresh coriander
  • Salt and pepper
  • 6 cups (1.5 L) Ontario Arugula
  • 1 pint (500 mL) Ontario Cherry Tomatoes, halved
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Preparation:

In large saucepan, bring wheat berries and at least 8 cups (2 L) water to boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1-1/2 hours or until tender. Add peas; simmer for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse well in colander. Set aside in colander to continue to drain.

Meanwhile, cut bacon into bite-size pieces. Cook in skillet over medium-low heat until lightly crisped; drain on paper towel-lined plate. Keep warm.

In large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey and hot pepper flakes. Add drained wheat berry mixture, onion and mint; toss well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. (Salad can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead; cover and refrigerate. Serve at room temperature.)

Line 4 dinner plates with arugula. Top with wheat berry mixture and warm bacon pieces. Garnish with tomato halves and, if desired, fresh mint leaves.