Description
A fresh and vibrant asparagus and radish salad tossed in a tangy caper vinaigrette. This light and healthy salad combines crisp blanched asparagus and peppery radishes with a zesty dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, capers, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Perfect as a quick side dish or a refreshing starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus
- 8-10 radishes
Capper Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Rinse the asparagus and radishes thoroughly under cold water. Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and cut the stalks into bite-sized pieces.
- Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and blanch them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- Slice the Radishes: While the asparagus is cooling, thinly slice the radishes into rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, honey (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Toss the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched asparagus and sliced radishes. Drizzle the caper vinaigrette over the vegetables and gently toss to coat everything evenly without bruising the delicate ingredients.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste and texture, or cover and refrigerate it for up to 1 hour if you prefer a chilled salad.
Notes
- Blanching the asparagus enhances its color and texture while retaining its nutrients.
- Adjust the amount of honey in the vinaigrette to suit your preferred sweetness level or omit for a completely savory dressing.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be chilled briefly in the refrigerator before serving.
- For added crunch, consider topping the salad with toasted nuts or seeds.
