Warm Asparagus Mushroom Salad with Goat Cheese & Balsamic Dressing
Description
This delightful Warm Asparagus Mushroom Salad, inspired by the culinary artistry of Peter Martin’s restaurant in Kitchener, Ontario, is a celebration of spring flavors, perfect for both leisurely lunches and impressive dinner starters. Featuring tender-crisp asparagus arranged in a beautiful sunburst pattern and enhanced by earthy mushrooms, this dish is topped with creamy goat cheese and a tangy balsamic dressing that elevates the salad to a new level of deliciousness. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it not only pleases the palate but also creates a stunning presentation, making it a wonderful choice for any occasion.
Recipe Category
Vegetable
Keywords
Canadian, Spring, Summer, < 30 Mins, Beginner Cook, Easy
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving (4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 21.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 167 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 9.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g |
| Sugars | 4.6 g |
| Protein | 4.3 g |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 mins |
| Cook Time | 15 mins |
| Total Time | 25 mins |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bunch of asparagus |
| 1 | Tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil |
| 2 | Cups of mushrooms (sliced) |
| 2 | Cloves of garlic (minced) |
| 1 | Tablespoon of fresh dill (chopped) |
| 3 | Tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (for dressing) |
| 3 | Tablespoons of balsamic vinegar |
| 1/4 | Teaspoon of salt |
| 1/3 | Teaspoon of pepper |
| 2 | Cups of mixed salad greens |
| 1/4 | Cup of goat cheese (crumbled) |
| 1/4 | Cup of red bell peppers (sliced) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Asparagus: Begin by snapping off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. You can choose your preferred cooking method, but I highly recommend pan-roasting for this recipe. For pan-roasted asparagus, heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for about 5–7 minutes until they are tender-crisp and vibrant green. If you prefer steaming or boiling, ensure they remain slightly firm for the best texture.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Set this dressing aside; its richness will beautifully complement the fresh vegetables.
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Cook the Mushrooms: In a large non-stick skillet, heat another tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and any liquid released has evaporated.
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Add Aromatics: Once the mushrooms are beautifully golden, toss in the minced garlic and sliced red bell peppers. Stir-fry these for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.
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Combine with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the mushroom mixture, adding 2 tablespoons of the chopped fresh dill at this stage. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until everything is heated through and well combined.
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Assemble the Salad: On a large serving platter, artistically arrange the asparagus in a sunburst pattern, creating an appealing visual centerpiece. Top with a generous mound of mixed salad greens, ensuring they are interspersed among the asparagus.
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Finish with Toppings: Drizzle the warm mushroom and dressing mixture over the asparagus and greens. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and the remaining fresh dill on top for a burst of flavor and freshness.
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Serve and Enjoy: This salad is best served warm. Invite your guests to experience this delightful dish, which not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a visual feast that celebrates the beauty of spring.
This Warm Asparagus Mushroom Salad with Goat Cheese & Balsamic Dressing is an exquisite option for any meal, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a healthy yet indulgent dish. Enjoy the fresh flavors and delightful textures that each ingredient brings, making every bite a memorable one.
