Skip to main content

Warm Cauliflower and Herbed Barley Salad

This warm cauliflower and herbed barley salad is a vibrant vegan dish that balances earthy flavours with a bright, zesty dressing. The combination of nuttier pearled barley and tender, golden-brown cauliflower florets provides a satisfying texture, while butter beans add a creamy, protein-rich element. It is a wonderful example of how simple, plant-based ingredients can be transformed into a sophisticated and colourful meal that works just as well for a midweek dinner as it does for a healthy packed lunch.

Packed with fresh parsley and tarragon, this heart-healthy salad is both refreshing and filling. The lemon and mustard dressing cuts through the richness of the grains, making every bite feel light yet nourishing. Serve this versatile dish warm from the pan to enjoy the contrast of temperatures, or prepare it ahead of time as the flavours will continue to develop beautifully when left to mingle.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Warm Cauliflower and Herbed Barley Salad

  • 80g pearled barley

  • Kosher salt

  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest

  • 45ml fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets

  • 1 425g can gigante, corona, or butter beans, rinsed

  • 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, divided

  • 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves, divided

How to make Warm Cauliflower and Herbed Barley Salad

Place barley in a large saucepan; add water to cover by 2". Season with salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, 25-30 minutes. Drain; run under cold water. Set aside.

Meanwhile, whisk lemon juice, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and 80ml oil in a medium bowl until emulsified. Season dressing with salt and pepper; set aside.

Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cauliflower; cook, turning occasionally, until browned in spots, 10-12 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons water, cover, and cook until just tender, about 2 minutes longer. Season with salt and pepper.

Transfer cauliflower to a large bowl; add beans, 1/4 cup parsley, 1 tablespoon tarragon, reserved barley, and half of reserved dressing. Toss to coat; season with salt and pepper.

Divide salad among bowls; drizzle remaining dressing over. Garnish with lemon zest, 1/4 cup parsley, and 1 tablespoon tarragon.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.