Go Back
Chilled Asparagus Crunch Salad

Chilled Asparagus Crunch Salad

Looking for a refreshing dish to satisfy your spring cravings? This Chilled Asparagus Crunch Salad is the perfect blend of crisp asparagus, crunchy walnuts, and creamy blue cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. It’s not just a salad; it’s a delightful experience that’s easy to prepare. Serve it at your next gathering and impress your guests!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads, Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus spears, woody ends trimmed
  • cup toasted walnuts, chopped
  • cup crumbled blue cheese
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • pinch salt
  • to taste freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs, chives, basil, etc.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Chef's Knife
  • Whisk
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Start by blanching the asparagus. Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed asparagus and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you may need to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the spears.
  3. Use a strainer to immediately transfer the cooked asparagus to the ice bath. This step is crucial for halting the cooking process and ensuring the asparagus retains its bright green hue.
  4. Let the asparagus chill in the ice bath for about 5 minutes. Afterward, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  5. Place the chilled asparagus on a serving plate. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the asparagus. To make the dressing, whisk together the lemon juice and dijon mustard in a bowl, then slowly whisk in the olive oil until the mixture is emulsified.
  7. Top the salad with crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts. The combination of these ingredients adds layers of flavor and texture that make this salad stand out.
  8. Serve the salad immediately. It’s refreshing and delicious cold, but it also holds up well at room temperature, making it a great option for gatherings.
  9. If you have any leftover dressing, it lasts for a few days in the fridge. Just be sure to whisk it again before using.

Notes

How to store leftovers: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to three days.