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After a recent encore viewing of Forks Over Knives, several of us were inspired to cook some plant-based foods last night. On the menu were spicy peas, sweet corn salad with cucumbers and tomatoes, and this grilled corn, zucchini, and bell pepper salad with black beans and barley. Thanks for Oh She Glows for this recipe. If you dice instead of chop the vegetables, you can have more of a relish/salsa for chips. Because everything is better on a chip. 

Ingredients:

Salad:

  • 3 bell peppers (any color–I used a few beautiful purple peppers that turned an unappetizing gray after grilling)
  • 2 zucchinis, sliced in half lengthwise
  • 6 ears of corn, husk removed
  • 1.5-2 cups cooked black beans (or one 15oz can)
  • 1/2 cup uncooked wheatberries (I used barley since that was available)

Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (2 limes) I’m sure lemon works too
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 small garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp minced fresh cilantro (or herb of choice)
  • 1 tsp maple syrup (or other sweetener)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste

 Directions:

1. Preheat the grill over medium heat. When it’s ready add the corn, rotating every few minutes. After about 10 minutes, add the zucchini and bell peppers. No need to chop the peppers, you can leave them whole. Grill for another 10 minutes, rotating frequently, until lightly charred.

2. Meanwhile, cook your grains on the stovetop (if using them) according to package directions. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients and adjust to taste.

3. When vegetables are done on the grill, cool, and then remove corn and chop the peppers and zucchini. Mix the drained and rinsed beans, grains, dressing, and vegetables together in a large bowl. Add a generous amount of salt and pepper, to taste. Will keep for a few days in the fridge.

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