Description

This Spring Wheat Berry Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish filled with nutty wheat berries, fresh asparagus, crunchy walnuts, and sweet medjool dates. Tossed in a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette, it’s a perfect dish for spring that can be enjoyed as a light main course or a refreshing side. Packed with wholesome ingredients and delightful textures, this salad is sure to become a favorite for your next meal or gathering.

Ingredients

1 cup wheat berries (pre-steamed or uncooked, check the package for cooking times)
1 small red onion or a few shallots
1 bunch asparagus
1 cup walnuts
8 to 10 radishes
3 to 4 medjool dates (or other dried fruit)
2 to 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
⅓ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes or minced chili pepper (jalapeno, serrano, etc.)

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Instructions

Prepare the Wheat Berries: If using uncooked wheat berries, cook them according to package instructions (usually simmering for 40-50 minutes). Drain and let them cool. If using pre-steamed wheat berries, heat them for a few minutes as needed.
Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly slice the red onion or shallots. Trim and chop the asparagus into 1-inch pieces, and thinly slice the radishes. Mince fresh chili peppers if using.
Toast the Walnuts: In a dry skillet, toast the walnuts over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Make the Dressing: Whisk together the white balsamic vinegar, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (or minced chili pepper) in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wheat berries, onion or shallots, asparagus, radishes, dates, and toasted walnuts. Toss to combine.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss again until evenly coated.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy as a light main dish or a side to grilled meats or fish.

Notes

Substitute Grains: You can replace wheat berries with other grains like farro, barley, or quinoa, but cooking times may vary.
Make Ahead: This salad is ideal for meal prepping and can be made a day in advance to let the flavors develop.
Vinegar Substitution: Use regular balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice as an alternative to white balsamic for a different flavor.
Spiciness: For more heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or use hotter chili peppers like serrano or habanero.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Mediterranean