
Yields:
4 - 6 serving(s)
Prep Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
Asparagus is the ultimate spring vegetable—it goes with just about everything, from scrambled eggs to grilled steak. And while roasted asparagus might be an easy go-to, this asparagus salad is the kind of dish that deserves a regular spot in your rotation.
It’s got a little bit of everything: crisp-tender asparagus, smoky bacon, toasted walnuts, peppery radishes, and plenty of shaved parmesan, all tossed with fresh herbs and a bright, lemony vinaigrette. The combination hits every note—refreshing, savory, crunchy, and just rich enough to feel satisfying without being heavy.
This salad fits right in alongside a holiday spread with glazed ham and biscuits, but it’s just as good served on its own for a light lunch. Add a scoop of white beans if you want to make it a little heartier, and you’ve got a complete meal.
What is the best way to trim asparagus?
The bottoms of asparagus can be woody and tough, so trimming them is essential. Some prefer snapping the ends off one by one using their hands, but not only does that take more time, it also wastes a lot of good asparagus. The easiest method is to gather the asparagus into a small bunch and slice off an inch or two from the bottoms with a sharp knife. Because the asparagus in this salad is steamed, the cooking will render any tougher parts tender.
Can you make asparagus salad ahead of time?
Certainly! Asparagus salad holds up very well in the fridge, making it a great option for entertaining or meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Wait to add the walnuts and bacon until just before serving.
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 2 slices bacon
- 1 lb. asparagus, ends trimmed and spears cut into thirds on the diagonal
- 1/2 bunch radishes, cut into 1/4-inch half-moon slices
- 1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped tender herbs (parsley, chives, basil, dill, mint, or a combination), plus more for serving
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil
- 2 tsp. dijon mustard
- 1 tsp. honey
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
Directions
- Step 1In a medium skillet, toast the walnuts over medium heat, stirring frequently so they don't burn, until they are toasted and fragrant, 4 to 6 minutes. Remove to a cutting board, let cool, then coarsely chop.
- Step 2Wipe out the skillet and add the bacon. Cook over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until brown and crispy, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a paper-towel lined plate to cool; crumble.
- Step 3Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a large pot fitted with a steamer basket. Fill a large bowl with ice water. Add the asparagus to the basket and steam until tender, 3 to 4 minutes; immediately transfer to the ice water to stop the cooking. Pat the asparagus dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Step 4In a large bowl, combine the asparagus, radishes, parmesan, herbs, and walnuts. Season with ½ teaspoon salt.
- Step 5In a small mason jar, combine the oil, mustard, honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, shallot, pepper, and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt. Secure the lid and shake vigorously to combine. Drizzle over the asparagus mixture and toss to coat.
- Step 6Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with the bacon and more parmesan and herbs.
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