Asparagus with Lemon Vinaigrette
Asparagus with Lemon Vinaigrette
This fresh, bright, make-ahead spring vegetable dish is the best of spring. The simple lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the farm fresh asparagus to create a light, tasty salad. I love to serve it with grilled chicken, pork or shrimp. It's fantastic to bring to a party or potluck as well.
Ingredients
The Asparagus
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
The Lemon Vinaigrette
- 1 large lemon or 2 small lemons
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1 pinch ground black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Asparagus
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the tablespoon of salt (I know that sounds like a lot of salt, but the salty water helps bring out the natural flavor of the asparagus)
- Wash the asparagus and snap off the tough ends. (I usually just snap one to see where the natural break is and cut the rest - saves a minute or two)
- When the water is boiling, drop the asparagus in and cook until just al dente (about 3-4 minutes)
- While the asparagus is cooking, fill a large bowl with ice water
- After 3-4 minutes, remove the asparagus from the boiling water and submerge it into the ice water (this technique is called blanching. It creates a lovely, colorful vegetables that work in a variety of dishes)
- Once the asparagus in cold to the touch (2-3 minutes in the water) remove it and place it on a platter. Dry the asparagus with a paper towel and set aside. (You can make it ahead and refrigerate the asparagus until you are ready to serve it)
Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
- Zest the lemon with a Microplane or peeler
- Juice the lemon into a jar. You'll want about 1/4 cup of lemon juice, so use a second lemon if need be
- Add all but a 1/2 teaspoon of the lemon zest (you'll use the rest for the top of the asparagus), the dijon mustard and a pinch of salt and pepper
- Add the olive oil
- Shake the jar like crazy and be sure the ingredients have combined and are emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasonings
Put it all together
- Add the remaining lemon zest and a sprinkle of kosher salt to the top of the asparagus
- Drizzle the asparagus with the Lemon Vinaigrette (give it a shake to be sure it hasn't separated)
- Serve with your favorite protein - chicken, pork, beef or shrimp or alongside a vegetarian meal and enjoy!
