Lemon Mint Barley Salad - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1/4 cup finely chopped of fresh mint
1 teaspoon grated fresh lemon rind
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 1/4 cups water
1 cup uncooked pearl barley
2 cups chopped tomatoes
3/4 cup chopped green onion
2 tablespoons capers
2 tablespoons chopped pitted kalamata olives
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Preparation

Combine 1/4 teaspoon salt and water in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil. Stir in barley; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 30 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat; cover and let stand 5 minutes.
Spoon barley into a large bowl; cool slightly. Add mint, tomato, green onions, capers, and olives; stir well to combine. Combine remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons lemon juice,red pepper and oil, stirring well with a whisk. Drizzle over barley mixture; toss gently to coat.