One-Pan Squash Barley Bowl (Printable Version)

Savor squash, barley, miso, and greens in this wholesome one-pan dish for a nourishing meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Produce

01 - 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
02 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
03 - 3 cups kale leaves, stemmed and roughly chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Grains & Legumes

05 - 3/4 cup pearl barley, rinsed

→ Sauce & Seasoning

06 - 2 tablespoons white miso paste
07 - 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
09 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste

→ Garnishes

11 - 2 tablespoons sliced scallions
12 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Add cubed squash and continue to sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and rinsed barley, cooking for 1 minute to coat grains with oil and combine flavors.
03 - Add vegetable broth, miso paste, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to dissolve miso. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes or until barley is nearly tender, stirring occasionally.
04 - Stir in chopped kale, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until greens are wilted and barley is fully cooked.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Divide into bowls and garnish with scallions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy clean-up with everything made in just one pan
  • Brings together wholesome grains and colorful vegetables everyone actually enjoys eating
  • Packed with umami from miso and roasted squash for ultimate comfort food
  • Flexible for meal prep and adapts easily with seasonal produce
02 -
  • Provides lasting plant-based energy
  • Freezes beautifully for make-ahead meals
  • Terrific way to get kids to love squash and grains
03 -
  • Never skip toasting the barley that step brings out incredible depth and prevents the bowl from turning gummy
  • Try a dash of toasted sesame oil for a finishing drizzle or sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch If reheating from the fridge set the pan over low heat with a splash of broth and gently stir until warmed through

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