Dive into the vibrant flavors of spring with our Asparagus Radish Snap Pea Salad! This delightful dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing explosion of taste that celebrates the season's freshest vegetables. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of only 5 minutes, you can whip up this colorful salad in no time. Perfect for a light lunch or as a stunning side at your next gathering, this vegetarian recipe is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut
- 1 cup radishes, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by washing them thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry with clean kitchen towels.
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by bending each spear until it naturally breaks at its tender point. Slice the asparagus diagonally into 2-inch pieces.
- Slice the radishes thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline, creating delicate, translucent rounds.
- Trim the ends of the snap peas and remove any stringy edges. Cut them diagonally into bite-sized pieces if desired.
- Bring a medium pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Prepare a separate bowl with ice water for blanching.
- Briefly blanch the asparagus and snap peas for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately transfer to the ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Drain the blanched vegetables and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the blanched asparagus, sliced radishes, and snap peas.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately at room temperature or slightly chilled for a refreshing, crisp salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, select fresh, crisp asparagus, radishes, and snap peas. Look for vibrant colors and firm textures.
- Blanching Technique: Blanching the asparagus and snap peas helps to enhance their color and maintain a crisp bite. Don’t skip the ice water bath; it’s essential for stopping the cooking process and preserving that bright green hue.
- Dress it Up: The dressing is simple yet crucial. Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like dill or basil for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad can be served immediately or chilled, making it a versatile option for meal prep or picnics.
- Add Protein: If you want to make it more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese for a protein boost.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
