As a craft enthusiast, I understand the importance of resourcefulness and creativity. These principles extend beyond the world of crafting and into our kitchens. During times like these, when we’re spending more time at home, finding ways to create delicious and convenient meals becomes paramount. That’s why I’m excited to share a recipe that’s not only healthy and flavorful but also incredibly easy to make: a hemp-infused barley and squash salad.
Embracing Simplicity: The Beauty of a Tray Bake
Let’s face it, spending hours in the kitchen every day isn’t sustainable for most of us. That’s where the beauty of a tray bake shines through. This cooking method is all about simplicity and minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or anyone looking to streamline their cooking routine.
A Flavorful Collaboration: Robert Kline Art Meets Happy Skin Kitchen
This recipe is extra special because it’s a collaboration with the talented Elisa from @happyskinkitchen. Elisa, a passionate advocate for healthy eating, uses our very own Extra Virgin Hemp Seed Oil and Hemp Seed Hearts to create a salad dressing that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition.
A Symphony of Textures and Tastes: Exploring the Ingredients
This barley and squash salad is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a culinary masterpiece. Let’s delve into the key components:
Barley: This hearty grain provides a chewy texture and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash.
Squash: Choose your favorite variety—butternut, acorn, or kabocha all work beautifully. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness and creates a tender texture.
Hemp Seed Hearts: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these tiny seeds add a delightful crunch and subtle nutty flavor to the salad.
Extra Virgin Hemp Seed Oil: This delicate oil, with its mild, earthy flavor, forms the base of the vibrant green dressing.
Watercress: This peppery green adds a refreshing bite and a burst of color to the salad.
Crafting Culinary Magic: The Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 medium squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Hemp Seed Oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 cup watercress, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Hemp Seed Hearts, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the barley according to package directions.
- Toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
- Roast the squash for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the dressing. Combine all the dressing ingredients, except the hemp seeds, in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Once the barley and squash are cooked, let them cool slightly.
- Combine the barley, roasted squash, and dressing in a large bowl. Toss gently to coat.
- Garnish with hemp seeds before serving.
Beyond the Plate: Tips and Tricks
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
- Meal prep hero: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Get creative with toppings: Add crumbled feta cheese, toasted nuts, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.
The Joys of Handmade: Food as a Creative Outlet
Just like crafting, cooking allows us to express our creativity and nourish ourselves and those we love. This hemp-infused barley and squash salad is a testament to the delicious possibilities that unfold when we embrace simple ingredients and a touch of culinary imagination.
I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating a wholesome and flavorful meal from scratch. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with me and the Robert Kline Art community! Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience, or share your own favorite healthy tray bake recipes.
For more unique and handcrafted gift ideas, be sure to explore the rest of the Robert Kline Art website.