Raw Asparagus Salad - Asparagus is a unique and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in various forms, but have you ever tried it raw? A raw asparagus salad is not only nutritious but also refreshing. This asparagus salad has a crisp, fresh texture with zesty-lemon dressing, and savory cheesy and nutty toppings.
Ingredients and Preparation
For this salad recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 bunch (16 ounces) of fresh asparagus
- ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup good olive oil
- ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup lightly toasted slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, julienned
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon sliced scallion (green part only)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Preparation
Follow these simple steps to prepare this salad:
1. Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus thoroughly. Trim off the woody ends and discard. Use a sharp knife to slice them thinly on an angle.
2. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Combine and Toss: Add the asparagus and toss gently to coat the asparagus evenly.
4. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, sliced green onion and almonds over the salad. Let sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the asparagus to absorb the dressing.
RECIPE NOTE: If you don't care for the unique flavor of raw asparagus, you can make this salad with blanched asparagus too. Simply cook the prepared and sliced asparagus in about 6 cups of boiling water (add a tablespoon of salt to the water if you prefer a saltier asparagus flavor, just be careful with the added salt to the dressing not to over-salt) for about 4-41/2 minutes. Remove and rinse with cold water to cool the asparagus before mixing with the dressing.
How to Serve Asparagus Salad
This raw asparagus salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for a larger meal. It pairs great with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty pasta dish. This asparagus salad has a crisp, fresh texture with zesty-lemon dressing, and savory cheesy and nutty toppings.
Try this raw asparagus salad recipe at your next meal and savor the refreshing taste of fresh, uncooked asparagus. It's a simple, healthy, and delicious addition to any menu!
Asparagus Salad Recipe
Asparagus is a unique and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in various forms, but have you ever tried it raw? A raw asparagus salad is not only nutritious but also refreshing. This asparagus salad has a crisp, fresh texture with zesty-lemon dressing, and savory cheesy and nutty toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch (16 ounces) of fresh asparagus
- ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup good olive oil
- ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup lightly toasted slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, julienned
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon sliced scallion (green part only)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus thoroughly. Trim off the woody ends and discard. Use a sharp knife to slice them thinly on an angle.
2. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Combine and Toss: Add the asparagus and toss gently to coat the asparagus evenly.
4. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, sliced green onion and almonds over the salad. Let sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the asparagus to absorb the dressing.
Notes
If you don't care for the unique flavor of raw asparagus, you can make this salad with blanched asparagus too. Simply cook the prepared and sliced asparagus in about 6 cups of boiling water (add a tablespoon of salt to the water if you prefer a saltier asparagus flavor, just be careful with the added salt to the dressing not to over-salt) for about 4-41/2 minutes. Remove and rinse with cold water to cool the asparagus before mixing with the dressing.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 172Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 328mgCarbohydrates: 5gFiber: 2gSugar: 1gProtein: 4g
Calories are estimated and may vary.
Need more salad recipe inspirations? Try our Simple Tomato Feta Salad or Valerie Bertinelli's Grilled Corn and Bean Salad.
