Embrace the fresh flavors of spring with this Asparagus & Strawberry Salad, a vibrant and refreshing dish that adds a burst of color to your seasonal menu. Crisp asparagus pairs beautifully with sweet, juicy strawberries, creating a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Perfect for any spring gathering, this salad offers a unique and flavorful twist on classic salads, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, brunch, or side dish. Whether you're hosting or enjoying a meal at home, this rejuvenating salad is sure to impress with its bright, seasonal flavors.
Ingredients
- 500 g fresh asparagus trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 250 g fresh strawberries hulled and halved
- 150 g mixed salad greens like arugula, spinach, or baby lettuce
- 100 g goat cheese crumbled
- 50 g slivered almonds toasted
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh mint or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Asparagus: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus pieces for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, toss the mixed greens with the asparagus and strawberries. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and toasted almonds over the top. Garnish with fresh mint or basil leaves if using.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately, or chill it briefly in the refrigerator before serving to enhance the flavors.
Notes
This Asparagus and Strawberry Salad is a perfect starter or light meal that captures the essence of spring with its fresh, zesty, and sweet components. It's sure to impress with its visual appeal and delightful combination of flavors!
- Asparagus Preparation: Ensure you don’t overcook the asparagus. It should be tender but still crisp to keep its texture in the salad.
- Balanced Dressing: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the sweetness with more honey or acidity with extra balsamic vinegar to suit your taste.
- Cheese Variations: Goat cheese provides a nice creamy balance to the crisp asparagus and sweet strawberries, but feta cheese could be used as a substitute for a tangier flavor.
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