There's no denying that spring and this popular green vegetable go together like peanut butter and jelly. Whether you grow your own asparagus at home or purchase it from a local farmer's market, you'll notice these tender green stalks appear throughout March, April, and May. Asparagus is one of our favourite seasonal delights, and it's easy to make. It's excellent for everything from spring weeknight dinners to that special Easter brunch. It'll be a breeze to grill, roast, sauté, and more if you get the hang of trimming it right. Isn't this one of our favourite dishes? Even though we'd rather fire up the grill, they're a terrific complement to dinner parties and get-togethers. We have put together our favourite asparagus dishes, you can make the most of this seasonal star.
INGREDIENTS
Asparagus Salad
1 lb asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
5 ounces salad greens
½ cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
2 tablespoons goat cheese
Balsamic Glaze Dressing
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, balsamic reduction
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, very finely minced
1 pinch sea salt
1 tablespoon water
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Bring 2-inches of water to boil in a medium-sized pot over high heat. Add the asparagus and set a timer for 2 minutes. Drain the water then rinse the asparagus under cold running water. Drain again then cover the asparagus in cold water. Add a few handfuls of ice cubes to the pot and set it aside.
2. 1 lb asparagus - While the water is heating, make the dressing. Add the oil, balsamic glaze, dijon mustard, garlic, and salt to a bowl and whisk to combine. Add the water and whisk once more.
¼ cup olive oil,2 tablespoons balsamic glaze,1 teaspoon dijon mustard,1 clove garlic,1 pinch sea salt,1 tablespoon water
3. Place the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, walnuts, and goat cheese into a salad bowl.
5 ounces salad greens,½ cup cherry tomatoes,¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans,2 tablespoons goat cheese
Drain the water from the asparagus then use a paper towel to pat them dry. Put the asparagus into the salad bowl, pour the dressing over the top, and toss to mix everything.
