📖 Instructions

1. First, let's get those wheat berries cooking! Rinse 1 cup of wheat berries under cold water. Place them in a medium saucepan, add 3 cups of water, and bring to a boil. Then, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the wheat berries are tender but still have a slight chew to them. Don't overcook them, or they'll become mushy. Drain any excess water and set aside to cool slightly.
2. While the wheat berries are cooking, let's prep the other ingredients! Chop 1/2 cup of red onion thinly. Dice 1 red bell pepper into small pieces. You can also use orange or yellow bell pepper, depending on your preference or what's on sale at your local grocery store!
3. In a large skillet or frying pan, cook 4 slices of bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and crumble it. Set aside about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan, and then add the red onion and bell pepper. Saute them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until they are slightly softened and slightly caramelized. Don't burn them!
4. Once the wheat berries have cooled, add them to a large mixing bowl. Add 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans (rinsed and drained), 1 cup of frozen corn (thawed), the sauteed red onion and bell pepper, and the crumbled bacon.
5. Now, for the flavor explosion! In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat!), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. I always taste-test my spice mixes to make sure they are well-balanced and delicious, so do the same!
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated. Add a handful of chopped fresh cilantro for freshness and extra flavor. Taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Sometimes I feel the need to add a bit more chili powder or lime juice... It is important to create a balance of flavor, and taste is very important!.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy! Or, you know, refrigerate for a bit and enjoy later – it's just as good! This salad is fantastic on its own or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. Trust me on this one, my friend. This salad brings people together in a way only incredible food can.