This Barley Bean Vegetable Salad is a simple salad that is full of nutritious ingredients. But don’t let it fool you because it still is super delicious!

Lately I have been seeing a plethora of fad diets on social media, especially those “secret” ones associated with middle-level marketing (MLM).

It’s a little disheartening that some dietitians are even promoting special products and swear they will improve your health, help you lose weight, etc.

Now don’t get me wrong, I love to hear about people trying to improve their health. however, all these EXTRA products are NOT necessary.

I honestly try to avoid hearing about the latest fad or gimmick when it comes to nutrition. BUT THEY ARE EVERYWHERE.

I truly wish people would get back to the basics of eating whole foods from ALL of the food groups. This simply including: lean protein, vegetables, fruits, dairy and whole grains.

If you think about it basically, it’s really not that hard. What is hard is changing the habits that you have created over many years.

Maybe you are stuck in a rut and can’t go without your Java Chip Frappuccino® (480 calories with whole milk).

Or you love getting together for your weekly happy hour and ordering those cheesy nachos and a margarita.

Or maybe you think you don’t have the time to shop and cook healthy foods.

Whatever the case may be, I believe if you want to be a healthy weight and lead a healthy lifestyle. It is absolutely possible but YOU need to be intentional about your choices and make them part of your daily life.

Now you’re probably thinking I am suggesting you change your entire routine to make this happen. And eat daily salads like this barley bean and vegetable salad pictured above.

I am not.

But I believe a few simple changes will and can lead to long-term habit changes and a healthier lifestyle.

Here are a couple of examples of changes that are small enough but doable:

Cook one extra dinner at home each week instead of carryout or eating at a restaurant.
When eating out choose a side salad or mixed vegetables instead of french fries.
Switch to a smaller size fancy coffee and ask for skim milk instead of whole milk.
Instead of sitting in front of the television after dinner go for a walk.
If you have food you can’t resist in your home, make a conscious decision not to buy them.

Only you know what your triggers are or what you need to improve.

I hope this post inspires you to make just a few small changes that lead to a healthier lifestyle.

Additional Chocolate Slopes Non-Lettuce Salad Recipes

greek.yogurt.broccoli.salad — Greek Yogurt Broccoli Salad with Sunflower Seeds

Mexican corn and black bean salad — Mexican Corn & Black Bean Salad

greek quinoa salad with feta — Greek Quinoa Salad

corn black bean & avocado salad — Corn Black Bean & Avocado Salad

And now check out this Barley Bean and Vegetable Salad non-lettuce salad for a simple nutritious side dish. It can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week.

Barley Bean and Vegetable Salad

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Prep Time 1 40

Total Time 1 40

Ingredients

1 cup barley, uncooked
1 cup canned garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
1 (4 ounce) can black olives, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped green, red, yellow or orange
1/2 cup carrots, chopped
1/2 cup almonds, chopped
2 teaspoons dried mint
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
black pepper and salt to taste

Instructions

Cook barley according to directions. Let cool slightly.
Once barley is cooked, combine all ingredients.
Refrigerate the salad at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

This Barley Bean & Vegetable Salad post first appeared on Chocolate Slopes.