Shaved Asparagus Salad

When warm weather rolls in, I often find myself craving something fresh and light, and that’s where Shaved Asparagus Salad comes into play. One sunny afternoon, I was wandering through the local farmers’ market, awash in vibrant colors and enticing aromas. As I perused the stalls, I stumbled upon some beautiful asparagus that called out to me. The idea of a salad came to mind—a crisp and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. This salad, tossed with a spicy chili lime dressing, makes for a delightful accompaniment to any meal or a satisfying lunch on its own.

As I made my way home, I could already envision the textures and flavors melding together: the tender crispness of the shaved asparagus, the crunch of the cabbage, and the aromatic hints of mint. Each bite offers a burst of freshness that simply sings of the season. The chili lime dressing adds just the right amount of kick, elevating the salad to new heights. This Shaved Asparagus Salad isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that transports you straight to a sun-soaked picnic, where laughter and good food come together.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this salad is a wonderful way to brighten your table. So, let’s dive into creating this vibrant dish that celebrates the best of spring ingredients.

Essential Ingredients for Shaved Asparagus Salad

The beauty of this Shaved Asparagus Salad lies in its simple yet delightful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious dish. The asparagus shines as the star, while the dressing brings a burst of flavor that harmonizes everything. Let’s explore these key players:

• 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor to the dressing.
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated/minced finely: Brings warmth and a subtle spice to the mix.
• Zest and juice of 1 lime: Provides a bright acidity that wakes up the palate.
• 2 teaspoons chili paste: Offers a delicious kick and heat to the dressing.
• 1 tablespoon agave nectar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar: Contributes a mild tanginess, enhancing the overall taste.
• Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the dressing perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty depth of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Acts as the base for the dressing, bringing everything together.
• 1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed and stalks peeled into ribbons: The main star of the salad, offering crunch and freshness.
• Small handful of grated cabbage (red, green, napa, savoy etc.): Adds crunch and color.
• 3 sprigs of mint, leaves removed and finely sliced: Infuses a refreshing aroma and flavor.
• 2-3 green onions, finely sliced: Provides a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.
• ⅓ cup peanuts, toasted and roughly chopped: Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness that complements the other ingredients.

Preparation Steps for Shaved Asparagus Salad

Creating the Shaved Asparagus Salad is a joyful experience that combines the freshest ingredients with a simple dressing. Follow these steps to enjoy a vibrant salad that’s sure to impress.

1. Start by making the dressing. In a jar or a tupperware dish with a tight-fitting lid, combine the ginger, garlic, lime zest, lime juice, chili paste, agave nectar, rice vinegar, sea salt, and ground black pepper. With a spoon, stir the ingredients to dissolve the salt and mix thoroughly. This step is essential to ensure the flavors meld beautifully.

2. Next, add the toasted sesame oil and olive oil to the mixture. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. The goal is to emulsify the oils with the other ingredients, creating a luscious and flavorful dressing.

3. Set the dressing aside and turn your attention to the salad itself. Take your fresh asparagus and using a vegetable peeler, shave the stalks into thin ribbons. You want them to be delicate and light, perfectly suited for a spring salad. If you prefer a bit more bite, you can leave them slightly thicker.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shaved asparagus, a small handful of grated cabbage, and the sliced mint and green onions. The colors should already be vibrant and inviting, signaling the freshness of your ingredients.

5. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Using your hands or a pair of tongs, gently toss everything together. Ensure the asparagus and other ingredients are well-coated in the dressing. The act of tossing brings the flavors together and harmonizes the dish.

6. Once everything is mixed well, transfer the salad to a serving plate. For an extra touch, garnish with the chopped peanuts and a few more mint leaves if desired. The peanuts add that perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the other textures.

7. Now it’s time to sit back and enjoy your creation! Each bite of the Shaved Asparagus Salad will be a celebration of fresh flavors. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

How to Switch It Up

While the Shaved Asparagus Salad is delicious as it is, here are some creative ways to switch it up and cater to your tastes:

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier salad.
• Make it a Wrap: Use the salad components as a filling for a wrap with your favorite flatbread or tortilla.
• Experiment with Nuts: Try different nuts like almonds or cashews instead of peanuts for a twist on texture.
• Try Different Greens: Feel free to use arugula or spinach instead of cabbage for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance to save time when you’re ready to assemble the salad.
• Seasonal Variations: Swap ingredients according to seasonal produce, like adding radishes in the summer.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving the Shaved Asparagus Salad, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Perfect for Lunch: This salad is a great option for a light lunch, especially paired with a crusty baguette or some whole grain crackers.
• Great for Picnics: Pack this salad in a portable container for outdoor meals; it’s a hit at picnics and barbecues.
• Pair with Grilled Dishes: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or vegetable skewers for a complete meal.
• Summer Gatherings: Ideal for summer gatherings, this salad adds a refreshing element to any potluck.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately to maintain freshness.
• Seasonal Side Dish: Enjoy it as a side dish for festive occasions like Easter or family gatherings in spring.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Shaved Asparagus Salad is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that capture the spirit of spring. With its crisp textures and zesty dressing, it’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. I encourage you to try making this delightful salad; it’s perfect for any occasion and sure to impress. Enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors that this salad brings to your table!

Shaved Asparagus Salad

Craving something refreshing? This Shaved Asparagus Salad with a zesty chili lime dressing is the perfect balance of crisp and creamy. Enjoy it as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish that will impress your guests. Make it tonight for a boost of freshness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 inch piece fresh ginger peeled and grated/minced finely
• 1 lime zest and juice
• 2 teaspoons chili paste
• 1 tablespoon agave nectar
• 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar
• sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bunch asparagus ends trimmed and stalks peeled into ribbons
• 1 small handful grated cabbage (red, green, napa, savoy etc.)
• 3 sprigs mint leaves removed and finely sliced
• 2-3 green onions finely sliced
• ⅓ cup peanuts toasted and roughly chopped

Equipment

• Grater
• Peeler
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Make the dressing: combine the ginger, garlic, lime zest, lime juice, chili paste, agave nectar, rice vinegar, sea salt and ground black pepper in a jar or tupperware dish with a tight fitting lid. Stir to dissolve the salt and combine everything. Add the sesame oil and olive oil. Put a lid on top and shake mixture vigorously to combine. Set aside.
2. Combine the ribboned asparagus, cabbage, sliced mint and green onions in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over top and toss to combine with your hands or tongs.
3. Place salad on a serving plate and garnish with the chopped peanuts and a bit more chopped mint if you like. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

• If you’re making this ahead: save the mint slicing and dressing-tossing for the end, right before serving.
• The acid in the dressing: can render the thin asparagus less crisp.
• Mint tends to go dark: post-slicing, so add it fresh.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.