Healthy Spring Asparagus Salad

This asparagus salad is crisp, fresh, and tossed in a bright lemon-feta dressing for a simple, flavor-packed side or a delicious, light and healthy main dish.

Ingredients

• Asparagus – 2 lbs. fresh asparagus
• Red Onion – 1 small red onion chopped
• Cherry or Grape Tomatoes – 1 cup halved
• Feta Cheese – ½ cup crumbled
• Fresh Parsley – ¼ cup chopped

Lemon Feta Dressing:

• Juice of ½ a lemon
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 clove of garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper

Directions:

• Wash and chop trimmed asparagus spears into thirds.
• Bring a large pot of water to a boil. While water is coming to a boil, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with water and lots of ice.
• Blanch the asparagus: Add spears to boiling water and let cook for 1-2 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove from the boiling water and transfer spears immediately into the ice bath.
• Let the asparagus chill in the ice water for a few minutes then remove with the slotted spoon or tongs. Transfer asparagus to a large plate lined with paper towels to dry.
• Whisk together the dressing ingredients: lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, feta, garlic, honey, pepper and salt.
• In a large bowl or platter, gently toss together blanched asparagus spears, red onion, tomatoes, parsley and dressing. Serve the salad with ¼ cup of feta sprinkled on top.

For a main meal – add grilled chicken, shrimp or salmon to the salad.

Enjoy!