-
1
Drain the wheat berries.
-
2
Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil.
-
3
Stir in the wheat berries and 2 teaspoons of the salt.
-
4
Lower the heat and simmer, partially covered, 20 minutes.
-
5
Stir in the barley and rice.
-
6
Partly cover, and cook until the grains are just tender, about 30 minutes.
-
7
Drain and cool.
-
8
Meanwhile, bring a medium saucepan of water to boil.
-
9
Stir in the lentils and 1 1/2 teaspoons of the salt.
-
10
Lower the heat and simmer, partly covered, until the lentils are just tender, about 20 minutes.
-
11
Drain and cool.
-
12
In a large bowl, combine the grains and lentils.
-
13
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, olive oil, vinegar, and remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and the pepper.
-
14
Puree until smooth.
-
15
Pour the dressing over the grains and lentils, and toss.
-
16
If desired, cook sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking up the clumps with a wooden spoon.
-
17
When it is cooked through, drain and mix into salad.
-
18
The salad can be prepared to this point 1 day ahead.
-
19
Cover and refrigerate, but let the salad return to room temperature before proceeding.
-
20
Add the mushrooms to the salad and toss well.
-
21
Adjust the seasoning, and add oil if the salad seems dry.
-
22
Garnish with basil sprigs.