Barley and Beans with Spinach, Mushrooms & Nuts

This is such good comfort food!  Adding fresh kale to V8 extra spicy is awesome in the Vitamix—and you get the extra greens.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch fresh kale
• 1/4 cup pignoli or walnuts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1-1/2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 3/4 cup chopped onions
• 3 cups cooked barley
• 1-3/4 cups cooked white beans
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• Salt & pepper

Directions:

• Wash and chop spinach.
• Dry toast the nuts lightly, and set aside
• Heat oil in large skillet over med-high heat.
• Add mushrooms & onions and soften.
• Add spinach and cook just till wilted.
• Stir in barley, beans, lemon juice, thyme, salt and pepper.
• Cook till heated through.
• Stir in nuts.