Asparagus Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette
A vibrant asparagus salad featuring roasted garlic, crimini mushrooms, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, perfect for light, flavorful meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place balsamic vinegar, chopped shallots, chopped garlic, and chopped thyme in a metal bowl.
- Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the vinaigrette is emulsified.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Set the vinaigrette aside.
- Blanch the asparagus until tender-crisp and set aside.
- Roast the garlic and remove skins.
- Slice the crimini mushrooms.
- Combine the blanched asparagus, roasted garlic, and sliced mushrooms in a serving dish.
- Drizzle with the balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of Dijon mustard to the vinaigrette. You can substitute white wine vinegar for balsamic if you're looking for a lighter taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also enhance the salad. If you're short on time, pre-chopped garlic and shallots are available at many grocery stores.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a light starter or side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great addition to a summer barbecue. For a complete meal, serve alongside Mediterranean recipes like Greek Honeyed Baklava or Fresh Vegetables With Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the asparagus in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. The vinaigrette can be used for other salads, or as a marinade for grilled vegetables.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette contains roughly 1211 calories, with 11g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (121% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1952mg per serving (85% 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 the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before blanching to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
What can I substitute for shallots?
If you don't have shallots, finely chopped red or yellow onions can work in a pinch. They will provide a similar sweetness, though the flavor will be slightly stronger. Consider using half the amount to start and adjust to taste.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Asparagus Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette is completely vegan-friendly! It features fresh vegetables and a simple dressing without any animal products, making it a great choice for plant-based eaters.
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).