Barley Salad with Almonds and Apricots

1 1/2 cups pearl barley
4 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 red onion, thinly sliced
3/4 cup dried apricots, sliced
1/2 cup sliced almonds
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 cup plain low-fat yogurt
2 tablespoons honey
1 lemon, juiced
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pinch ground nutmeg

Rinse barley in a fine sieve. Bring water to a boil in a heavy saucepan. Stir in the barley, and return to a boil. Cover, and reduce heat. Simmer until water is absorbed, about 45 to 50 minutes. Cool to room temperature.

Pour oil into a small skillet, and place over medium heat. Add onion, and saute until golden brown.

In a serving dish, combine barley, onion, apricots, almonds, and parsley. Toss.

In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and nutmeg. Pour over the barley mixture ,and toss well to combine. Serve at room temperature.

Makes 11 servings