Asparagus Salad

Chilled Asparagus Salad Recipe

Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a refreshing and healthy salad? Look no further because this chilled asparagus salad recipe is here to satisfy your cravings. Bursting with flavors and packed with nutrients, this salad is the perfect addition to any meal or a meal on its own. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes.
2. Drain the asparagus and immediately transfer them to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Once cooled, pat the asparagus dry and arrange them on a serving platter.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the asparagus and toss gently to coat.
6. Garnish the salad with cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.

How to Prepare:

This chilled asparagus salad is a breeze to prepare. Simply follow these easy steps:

1. Start by cleaning the asparagus and removing the tough ends.
2. Blanch the asparagus in boiling water for a couple of minutes until they become vibrant green.
3. Immediately transfer the blanched asparagus to a bowl of ice-cold water to maintain their crispness.
4. Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Pat the asparagus dry and arrange them nicely on a serving platter.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the asparagus and give it a gentle toss to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
7. Garnish the salad with halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
8. Voila! Your chilled asparagus salad is ready to be enjoyed.

Preparation Time:

The preparation time for this delightful asparagus salad is approximately 20 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe to whip up for a weekday lunch or a fancy dinner party.

Servings:

This recipe serves 2 people, making it a perfect portion for an intimate meal or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein.

Nutrition Facts:

While this asparagus salad is a treat for your taste buds, it is also a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients:

• Calories: 130
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 16mg
• Sodium: 271mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 6g

Tips:

Here are a few tips to enhance your asparagus salad experience:

• Choose fresh, vibrant green asparagus for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the asparagus during blanching; they should still have a slight crunch.
• Feel free to customize the salad toppings according to your preference. Add some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch.
• Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing and crisp bite.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can blanch the asparagus and prepare the dressing in advance. Keep them separate and assemble the salad just before serving for the best results.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Of course! If feta cheese isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with goat cheese, Parmesan, or even mozzarella.

Q: Can I add some protein to make it a complete meal?

A: Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be fabulous additions to this asparagus salad, transforming it into a satisfying and wholesome meal.

With its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and numerous health benefits, this chilled asparagus salad is a winner in every way. Treat yourself to this delightful dish and embrace the goodness of asparagus!