Fresh Balsamic Asparagus Salad Recipe
🕒 Prep Time: 5 minutes
🕒 Cook Time: 13 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 18 minutes
🥗 Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch baby asparagus
- 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Asparagus: Trim the baby asparagus, keeping the darker green and less fibrous parts, and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
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Slice the Mushrooms: Thinly slice the mushrooms.
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Simmer the Asparagus: In a saucepan, simmer the asparagus in 1/2 cup of water with a pinch of salt until it is tender, which usually takes about 10-13 minutes.
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Prepare the Dressing: While the asparagus is simmering, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a bowl.
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Add Olive Oil: Gradually add the extra virgin olive oil to the dressing mixture, whisking continuously. Then, season with fresh ground black pepper.
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Toss with Dressing: Once the asparagus is cooked and drained, let it cool slightly. Then, gently toss it with half of the prepared dressing to coat it well.
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Prepare the Basil and Mushroom Mixture: In a separate bowl, toss the sliced mushrooms and chopped fresh basil with the remaining dressing.
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Combine and Garnish: Arrange the dressed asparagus on a serving platter. Spoon the basil and mushroom mixture over the asparagus. Season with salt to taste and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
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Serve: Your Fresh Balsamic Asparagus Salad is now ready to be served! Enjoy this delightful and nutritious dish as a light lunch or snack, perfect for any season.
This flavorful salad bursts with freshness from the tender asparagus, tanginess from the balsamic dressing, and richness from the Parmesan cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser at potlucks or as a refreshing side dish for any meal! 🥗🍋