Cold Asparagus Salad
Cold Asparagus Salad Recipe from Arabia
Introduction
Cold asparagus salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. The crisp asparagus spears are paired with a tangy lemon and garlic dressing, making for a flavorful and satisfying salad.
History
Asparagus has been enjoyed for centuries, with records of its cultivation dating back to ancient Egypt. The combination of asparagus with a lemon and garlic dressing likely originated in Mediterranean cuisine, where these flavors are commonly used in salads and vegetable dishes.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- 1) Peel the asparagus spears, removing the tough outer flesh, especially around the lower portion of the spear. Wash and drain them, then plunge them into a pan of boiling salt water. Boil until tender but not limp. Chill them thoroughly.
- 2) Prepare the dressing by mixing the lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- 3) When the asparagus is thoroughly cold, pour the dressing over it and serve as a salad.
Variations
- Add cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for added texture.
- Substitute the lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to peel the asparagus spears to remove the tough outer flesh, as this will make them more tender and easier to eat.
- Boil the asparagus until just tender, as overcooking can make them mushy and unappetizing.
- Chill the asparagus thoroughly before serving to ensure that it is crisp and refreshing.
- The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
Cold asparagus salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.
Cooking Techniques
Boil the asparagus until just tender, then immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their bright green color.
- Make sure to thoroughly chill the asparagus before serving to ensure that it is crisp and refreshing.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use white asparagus instead of green for a milder flavor.
- Substitute the olive oil with avocado oil or another neutral oil for a different taste.
Make Ahead Tips
The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The asparagus can be boiled and chilled a day in advance, then dressed just before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the asparagus spears on a platter and drizzle the dressing over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon zest for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Cold asparagus salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or a simple pasta dish. It also goes well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover cold asparagus salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of cold asparagus salad contains approximately 70 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of cold asparagus salad contains approximately 8 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of cold asparagus salad contains approximately 3 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of cold asparagus salad contains approximately 3 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Asparagus is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and potassium.
Alergens
This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free. However, it does contain garlic, so it may not be suitable for those with garlic allergies.
Summary
Cold asparagus salad is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich dish that is high in vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Cold asparagus salad is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for summer. With its crisp asparagus spears and tangy lemon dressing, it is sure to be a hit at your next meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Cold Asparagus Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was attending a potluck picnic with some friends at the park. As I wandered around the different tables admiring all the delicious dishes, my eyes landed on a beautiful bowl of vibrant green asparagus spears, perfectly dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.
I couldn't resist trying a bite, and from the first taste, I was hooked. The asparagus was tender yet crisp, with a refreshing burst of flavor from the lemony dressing. I immediately sought out the person who had brought the dish and asked for the recipe.
As it turned out, the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, originating from her great-grandmother who had a knack for creating unique and delicious dishes. She graciously shared the recipe with me, and I couldn't wait to recreate it in my own kitchen.
The ingredients were simple and fresh: fresh asparagus spears, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. The preparation was straightforward as well, requiring just a quick blanching of the asparagus followed by a plunge into an ice bath to lock in the vibrant green color and crisp texture.
I gathered all the ingredients and got to work, following the instructions with care. As I whisked together the vinaigrette, the tangy aroma of the lemon and garlic filled the air, and I knew I was on the right track.
After chilling the salad in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld, I eagerly served it to my family at dinner that evening. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with everyone raving about the unique combination of flavors and textures.
From that moment on, Cold Asparagus Salad became a staple in our household, appearing at every family gathering and potluck event. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who also fell in love with its simple yet sophisticated flavors.
Over the years, I have made some small tweaks to the original recipe, adding in cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness, or swapping out the lemon juice for balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor profile. But the essence of the dish has always remained the same: fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious.
As I continue to share this recipe with others, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories and traditions that endure through the years. Cold Asparagus Salad will always hold a special place in my heart, as a reminder of that fateful day at the park when I discovered a new favorite dish and a treasured recipe.