This warm entree salad highlights late fall / winter flavors like apples, pecans and brie. The dish is topped with a sweet- tart vinaigrette made from apple cider for an extra special finish. Smarts: If you have leftover apple cider, simmer it with some cinnamon sticks for a warm after-dinner drink.
Barley - Bring a saucepan of water to boil. Salt water generously and add barley. Cook for 45 to 55 minutes, until tender but not soggy. (Can be done up to 4 days ahead)
Make vinaigrette - Combine shallots, cider and vinegar in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and simmer until reduced by about 1/3, 5 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in olive oil and mustard. Season with some salt and pepper. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Pecans - You can leave them raw for the salad or, if you prefer you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant, ~4 minutes. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Brie / Apples - Prep as directed.
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If barley was cooked ahead and you would like it warm, reheat in the microwave.
Toss barley with first portion of vinaigrette (reserve the rest of the vinaigrette to dress the salad).
Assemble salads by setting out a bed of arugula and topping it with barley, pecans, apples and brie. Add second portion of vinaigrette until the salad is dressed to your liking. Enjoy!