Step 1

In a medium pot, add 1 quart of water and the salt.

Step 2

Bring the water to a boil and add the barley.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to medium high and continue to boil the barley until the grains are tender but not mushy (about 35 minutes).

Step 4

Drain, but reserve a few tablespoons of the liquid in case you need to add it at the end to reheat the dish.

Step 5

Heat the oil in a skillet or saucepan.

Step 6

Sauté the onion in the oil until softened.

Step 7

Add the spices (oregano, basil, pepper) and stir.

Step 8

Add the green beans and barley and stir to combine.

Step 9

Toast the pine nuts under your broiler or in a dry skillet on the stove. Watch them carefully and remove them when they first start to turn a little brown. They burn easily!

Step 10

Add the parsley, toasted pine nuts and cheese to the casserole and stir to combine.

Step 11

Heat over medium heat a minute or two and serve hot immediately.[