Barley With Monterey Jack One Dish Dinner - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 c. pearled barley
5 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1 tsp. salt
1 (35 oz.) can Italian chopped plum tomatoes, drained
1 1/4 c. half and half
1 c. minced scallions
1 c. pitted black olives
2 (4 oz.) cans sliced mild green chili peppers, drained and chopped
8 oz. sauteed mushrooms
1/2 lb. grated Monterey Jack cheese

Preparation

In a large saucepan, cook barley in 3 tablespoons butter, stirring for 2 minutes.
Add 4 cups water and salt.
Bring liquid to boil and simmer, covered, for 45 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
Let cool.
Mix tomatoes, half and half, scallions, olives, mushrooms and chili peppers, 3/4 of the cheese, salt and pepper in a bowl.
Combine well and transfer to a baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake at 350\u00b0 for 15 to 20 minutes.
Serves 8.