Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is essential for blanching the asparagus. As the water heats up, set aside a bowl of ice water. This will help stop the cooking process and keep the asparagus vibrant green.
- When the water is boiling, drop in the asparagus pieces. Blanch them for about 1 minute—you want them tender but still bright green. This quick cooking method retains their nutrients and crispiness.
- Once the asparagus is ready, transfer it immediately to the bowl of ice water. This step is crucial to halt the cooking and lock in that beautiful color. Leave them in the ice water for another minute, then drain.
- Next, lay the asparagus on a kitchen towel to dry. It’s important to remove excess water so the dressing adheres well.
- Now, in the bottom of a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and pepper. This mixture will form the base of your dressing.
- Once combined, add the blanched asparagus and peas into the bowl. Toss everything together until well coated. This is where the magic happens—each bite will burst with flavor!
- Transfer the salad mixture to a serving platter. This is your chance to make it look beautiful!
- Drizzle some of your avocado dressing over the top. This adds a creamy texture and enhances the salad’s overall flavor.
- Top the salad with feta cheese, radishes, and pine nuts. Each of these ingredients adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that you’ll love.
- Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh mint or basil leaves for garnish. This not only looks stunning but also adds a fresh aroma.
- Enjoy your delightful Asparagus Salad! Serve it immediately for the best flavor and freshness.
Notes
When making your Asparagus Salad, here are some helpful tips to ensure you get the most out of the recipe.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, though.
- Freezing: Freezing this salad isn't recommended due to the freshness of the ingredients, but you can freeze leftover blanched asparagus for later use.
- Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect side dish for a summer barbecue.
- Variations: Consider adding roasted nuts or seeds for additional crunch, or swap out feta cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Dress it up: Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite combination.