Description
This Tarragon Asparagus Salad is a refreshing and light side dish featuring tender blanched asparagus tossed in a tangy lemon and tarragon dressing. Enhanced with optional toasted nuts and crumbled goat cheese or feta, it’s perfect for spring or summer meals. Easy to prepare and served chilled or at room temperature, this salad combines crisp textures with fresh, herbaceous flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Asparagus
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds or walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
Instructions
- Blanch Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the asparagus is just tender and has a bright green color. Quickly drain and immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain thoroughly and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, chopped tarragon, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Toss and Serve: In a large bowl, combine the blanched asparagus with the prepared dressing and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly. If using, add chopped toasted nuts and crumbled goat cheese or feta, and toss gently again to incorporate. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- This salad works well as a light side dish or can be served over mixed greens for a heartier meal.
- Fresh tarragon provides a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor; adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
- To save time, the salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and kept chilled in the refrigerator.
- Use toasted nuts for added crunch and flavor contrast, or omit for a nut-free option.
- Crumbled goat cheese or feta adds creaminess and tang but can be left out for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
