Imagine a busy weekday when you’re craving fresh flavors, easy preparation, and a beautifully set table. This Scandinavian-inspired recipe with pearl barley, new potatoes, and asparagus—enriched with the iconic products from Nicolas Vahé—brings style and taste together. Perfect for a light spring lunch or as a summery side during a dinner with friends.
Why choose pearl barley?
Pearl barley, also known as pearled emmer, is a classic grain from the far north. It’s filling, nourishing, and has a pure flavor. Combined with crunchy vegetables and aromatic oils, this base becomes a surprisingly culinary canvas:
- Source of fiber and plant-based proteins
- Accessible alternative to rice or pasta
- Perfect to pair with fresh seasonal produce
Ingredients for Scandinavian pearl barley salad
- 250g pearl barley
- 500g new potatoes (unpeeled, halved)
- 200g green asparagus
- 4 tbsp olive oil with Provençal herbs from Nicolas Vahé
- 3 tbsp basil-parmesan pesto from Nicolas Vahé
- Lemon zest & a splash of juice
- Pepper and salt to taste
- A handful of lamb’s lettuce or watercress (optional)
How to make this light Scandinavian meal
- Cook the pearl barley according to the package instructions. Drain and let it dry out lightly.
- Boil the potatoes in plenty of water until just tender. Drain and let cool.
- Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and blanch for 3 minutes. Rinse with cold water to keep them beautifully green.
- Combine the pearl barley, potatoes, and asparagus in a large bowl.
- Generously drizzle with the olive oil with Provençal herbs and fold in the basil & parmesan pesto.
- Season with lemon zest, a good twist of pepper, and a pinch of sea salt if desired.
- Serve lukewarm, garnished with some lamb’s lettuce for a fresh touch.
Variation tips & serving suggestions
- Swap the asparagus for roasted zucchini or peas for a summery twist.
- Add grilled chicken or smoked salmon for extra bite.
- Serve as a main course or as a cold salad at a barbecue.
- Make it truly Scandinavian by adding some chopped dill and a drop of mustard.
Cooking with Nicolas Vahé: Scandinavian ease at home
Nicolas Vahé turns simple meals into a celebration. In our extensive Nicolas Vahé collection you’ll find, besides olive oil and pesto, exclusive herbs, jams, and dressings—everything you need for endless variety. Each product is a flavorful shortcut for when you don’t have the time or energy to make everything from scratch, but still want to serve something special.
A plate full of Scandinavian simplicity
This dish is everything you hope for on a warm spring day: simple, nourishing, and bursting with fresh flavors. The pure ingredients and elegant products from Nicolas Vahé subtly elevate this dinner—without any fuss!
Summary: Flavorful inspiration for home
Feeling inspired to make this dish? Discover all the essentials quickly and easily in our Nicolas Vahé collection. From flavor makers to kitchen tools: cooking becomes a celebration.
Frequently asked questions about pearl barley with vegetables
- How long can you keep pearl barley salad?
- You can keep this salad covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best served at room temperature.
- Can I prepare the potatoes and vegetables in advance?
- Yes, feel free to cook and blanch them a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge and mix with the dressing just before serving.
- Is pearl barley gluten-free?
- Pearl barley is made from wheat and therefore contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, you can use quinoa or rice.
