She Strengthens

Springtime Asparagus Salad: A Delicious Celebration of Fresh Flavors

As the seasons change, our plates should too. Welcome the arrival of spring with a vibrant and refreshing shaved asparagus salad, featuring the best of the season’s produce.

The Beauty of Thinly Sliced Vegetables

Thinly sliced using a vegetable peeler, this salad showcases the tender crunch of asparagus, perfectly paired with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, salty Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts.

A Simple yet Elegant Recipe

This easy-to-make salad is perfect for a springtime gathering or Easter dinner. Serve it alongside a simple Leg of Lamb or our Salmon Fillet recipe for a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

• 1/2 medium lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 teaspoons champagne vinegar
• 2 tablespoons minced shallot
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons pine nuts
• 1 pound thick asparagus spears, tough bottoms removed
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup packed shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves

Preparing the Salad

Begin by combining the lemon zest, lemon juice, vinegar, shallot, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Meanwhile, toast the pine nuts in a medium frying pan over medium heat, stirring often, until golden brown. Remove to a small bowl to cool.

Using a vegetable peeler, thinly slice the asparagus lengthwise into strips and place in a large bowl. Whisk the olive oil into the lemon-vinegar mixture in a thin and steady stream. Taste and season the dressing with salt and pepper as needed.

Bringing it all Together

Add the cooled pine nuts, dressing, half of the Parmesan, and all of the parsley to the asparagus and toss with your hands to combine. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Let it sit at least 10 minutes before serving. Serve topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese slices.

A Delicious Celebration of Spring

This shaved asparagus salad is a true celebration of the season’s freshest flavors. With its bright colors and zesty flavors, it’s the perfect addition to any springtime gathering. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the taste of spring!