Barley with Lemon and Kale

Step 1

Bring 1 quart of salted water to a boil in a medium sized sauce pan, add barley and cook until tender. About 45 minutes. To drain pour water and barley through a large mesh sieve and set over the pot (off the heat) to drain completely while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat a large saute pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and then the chopped onions. Saute onions until soft and slightly caramelized. This will take about 10 minutes. Add garlic and saute for another minute or two. Toss in hot pepper flakes, stir a bit, then add kale (it will seem like so, so much kale, but it will cook down). Continue to saute until the kale is tender and wilted - 5 to 7 minutes - then remove from heat.

Step 3

In a large bowl, or in the cooling saute pan, toss barley, kale and lemon zest together. Sprinkle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with a little of your favourite rich tasting extra virgin olive oil and serve.