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Asparagus Salad Recipe

4.7 from 511 reviews

A refreshing and vibrant asparagus salad featuring blanched asparagus, sweet cherry tomatoes, fresh peas, and red onions, all tossed in a tangy lemon-Dijon dressing and topped with crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy lunch option.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 1 lb Asparagus (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1 1/2 cups Cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/2 cup Red onion (sliced into thin quarter moons)
  • 1/2 cup Fresh peas (or thawed frozen peas)
  • 1/3 cup Feta cheese (crumbled)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil (whole leaves)

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup Extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp Sea salt
  • 1/8 tsp Black pepper

Instructions

  1. Blanch the asparagus: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and blanch for 2 minutes until they turn bright green. Prepare a bowl of ice water. After blanching, immediately transfer the asparagus to the ice water to shock and stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry.
  2. Combine salad ingredients: Transfer the cooled asparagus to a large bowl or platter. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions, and fresh peas.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  4. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to evenly coat all ingredients.
  5. Serve: Top the asparagus salad with crumbled feta cheese and whole fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving for enhanced flavor.

Notes

  • For best texture, do not over-blanch the asparagus; 2 minutes is sufficient.
  • You can substitute frozen peas if fresh are not available; just thaw before adding.
  • Adjust lemon juice and seasoning to taste for a brighter or milder dressing.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
  • For a vegan option, omit the feta or replace with a plant-based cheese.

Keywords: Asparagus Salad, Blanched Asparagus, Healthy Salad, Spring Salad, Vegetarian Salad, Fresh Vegetable Salad, Feta Cheese Salad