Description
A fresh and vibrant Asparagus and Radish Salad tossed in a zesty caper vinaigrette, perfect for a quick, healthy side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- Fresh asparagus, 1 bunch (about 12 oz)
- Radishes, 6-8 medium
Vinaigrette
- Extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons
- Lemon juice, 2 tablespoons
- Capers, 1 tablespoon, drained and chopped
- Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon
- Honey, 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the vegetables: Rinse the asparagus and radishes thoroughly. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and cut the stalks into bite-sized pieces.
- Blanch asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender. Immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process and preserve vibrant color.
- Slice radishes: While the asparagus cools, thinly slice the radishes using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform, crisp slices.
- Make the caper vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped capers, honey (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well emulsified.
- Combine salad: In a large bowl, mix the blanched and drained asparagus with the sliced radishes. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the vegetables and gently toss to coat evenly without bruising the vegetables.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for best freshness or chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Blanching asparagus preserves its vibrant color and crisp-tender texture.
- Adjust honey quantity or omit it for a less sweet vinaigrette or to keep it vegan.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated, but toss with vinaigrette just before serving if preparing much earlier.
- Use fresh, crisp radishes for best texture and flavor contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: American
