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California Barley Bowl with Lemony Yoghurt Sauce

This vibrant California barley bowl is a wonderful example of fresh, sunshine-inspired cooking. Combining chewy wholegrains with the crunch of bean sprouts and toasted almonds, it offers a satisfying contrast of textures. The addition of creamy avocado and salty crumbled cheese brings richness to the dish, while the citrus-spiked yoghurt dressing provides a bright, acidic lift that ties all the components together beautifully.

As a nutritious vegetarian meal, this bowl is perfect for a quick weekday lunch or a light evening supper. It is packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats, making it as nourishing as it is flavourful. For the best results, serve the barley while it is still slightly warm to help the flavours meld, and finish with a generous pinch of flaky sea salt.

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Ingredients for California Barley Bowl with Lemony Yoghurt Sauce

  • 350ml / 255 g cooked barley, still warm

  • 1 cup / 55 g bean sprouts, any variety (I like mung bean sprouts)

  • 1/3 cup / 60 g crumbled Cotija cheese or queso fresco

  • 35g / 20 g sliced almonds, toasted

  • 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1 small ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced or sliced

  • Lemony Yoghurt Sauce

  • Flaky salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper

In a small bowl, stir the barley, sprouts, cheese, almonds, and kosher salt together. Scoop into 2 individual bowls and top with the avocado and a few generous spoonfuls of yoghurt sauce. Sprinkle with flaky salt and pepper and serve.

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.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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