How to Make Pasta with Cilantro Pesto and Barley - A Step-by-Step Guide

There's nothing quite like a fresh and flavorful homemade pesto to elevate a simple pasta dish. And when you add nutty barley to the mix, you have a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. This Pasta with Cilantro Pesto and Barley recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional pesto pasta, featuring a bright and zesty cilantro pesto that's packed with flavor.

The combination of cilantro, garlic, lime, and toasted nuts creates a vibrant and aromatic pesto that pairs...

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Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups water
  • ½ cup pearl barley
  • 8 ounces uncooked orecchiette pasta
  • 1 bunch cilantro
  • ½ bunch green onions
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup vegetable broth
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup torn arugula leaves
  • salt and pepper to taste

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 40 mins
  • Total Time: 55 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: 4 servings

  • In a saucepan, bring the 1 1/2 cups water to a boil. Stir in the barley. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 30 minutes.
  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add orecchiette pasta, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
  • In a food processor, finely chop the cilantro, green onions, and 1/2 the tomatoes. Mix in the broth and Parmesan cheese, and process until well blended.
  • In a large bowl, toss the barley, pasta, cilantro mixture, remaining tomatoes, and arugula. Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
  • Nutrition

    413 cal.

    • Total Fat: 4g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Cholesterol: 4mg
    • Sodium: 303mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 82g
    • Dietary Fiber: 9g
    • Total Sugars: 2g
    • Protein: 14g
    • Vitamin C: 18mg
    • Calcium: 123mg
    • Iron: 4mg
    • Potassium: 444mg