When the sun shines bright and the air feels warm, nothing satisfies quite like a vibrant, flavor-packed salad that’s both light and satisfying. This Mediterranean-inspired tomato and clam salad with barley rusks is the perfect balance of fresh, briny, and crunchy textures. The sweetness of ripe tomatoes pairs beautifully with tender clams, while spicy capers add a delightful punch. For an extra layer of richness, you can toss in some thinly sliced cured meat or cubes of creamy Gruyere cheese—making it a versatile dish that’s as perfect for a quick lunch as it is for an elegant summer gathering.
Recipe: Tomato, Clam, and Barley Rusk Salad
Author: Christopher Peskias
Photography & Food Styling: Amaryllis Tsegkou
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 ripe tomatoes, grated (or finely diced for texture)
- 3 bunches scallions, cleaned and roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (yellow or red for color), sliced
- ½ bunch fresh mint, chopped
- 300 g barley rusks, hand-broken into rustic pieces
- 150 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 20 ml red wine vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 200 g cooked clams (for a seafood twist)
- 100 g cured ham (like prosciutto) or Gruyère cheese cubes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, add the barley rusks—breaking them by hand ensures a nice, uneven texture that soaks up the dressing beautifully.
- Layer in the grated tomatoes, letting their juices soften the rusks slightly.
- Add the scallions, capers, red onion, bell peppers, and fresh mint.
Step 2: Season & Dress
- Season lightly with salt and pepper (remember, capers add saltiness, so go easy).
- Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then toss gently to combine. The rusks should absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.
Step 3: Customize (Optional)
- For a seafood variation, fold in cooked clams just before serving.
- For a hearty touch, add thinly sliced cured meat or Gruyère cubes.
Step 4: Serve Fresh
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with extra mint or a drizzle of olive oil for a finishing touch.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy days.
✅ Bursting with Freshness – The combo of juicy tomatoes, crisp peppers, and aromatic mint is irresistible.
✅ Textural Heaven – Barley rusks add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with tender clams (if using).
✅ Endlessly Adaptable – Make it vegetarian, seafood-rich, or cheese-loaded based on your mood!
- Pair with a chilled glass of Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc for a true Mediterranean experience.
- Serve alongside grilled fish or lemon-herb chicken for a complete meal.
Pro Tip: If barley rusks are hard to find, substitute with whole-grain sourdough croutons or even pita chips for a different twist.