Asparagus And Parmesan Salad
A vibrant and fresh salad featuring crisp steamed asparagus, aromatic herbs, tangy lemon dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, perfect for light lunches or side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam the asparagus for 5 to 7 minutes until crisp tender.
- Remove and let cool slightly.
- In a screw top jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, thyme or basil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and shake until well combined to make the dressing.
- Arrange the cooled asparagus on a platter.
- Drizzle the dressing over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, and add basil and slivered garlic if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
When selecting asparagus, look for firm, bright green stalks with tightly closed tips. You can substitute the fresh herbs with dried ones if necessary, but use less, as they are more concentrated in flavor. For a twist, consider adding some toasted nuts or serving it with a side of Fried Zucchini Blooms for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This asparagus and Parmesan salad makes a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or seafood. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes and works well as part of a buffet. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a slice of Veggie Pizza (Low-Fat) or alongside Herbed Feta Spread for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover asparagus salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing can cause the asparagus to become soggy, so consider keeping it separate until ready to serve. To refresh, lightly steam the asparagus again or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus And Parmesan Salad contains roughly 35 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 511mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus for this salad?
While fresh asparagus is recommended for its crisp texture, you can use frozen if necessary. Just ensure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before steaming, as excess moisture can dilute the dressing.
What other cheeses can I use instead of Parmesan?
If you prefer a different flavor, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be excellent substitutes for Parmesan. They will offer a similar salty and nutty flavor that complements the asparagus well.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the asparagus crisp. Consider prepping the asparagus and dressing separately for easy assembly later.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).