Fresh Spring Salad with Asparagus and Avocado Bliss
A vibrant spring salad bursting with fresh flavors and colors, featuring asparagus, avocado, and feta, perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- - Pot
- - Food processor
- - Large bowl
- platter
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 bunch Asparagus Can substitute with green beans
- 1 cup Frozen Peas Thawed
- 4 cups Salad Greens Mixed greens or spinach recommended
- 1 cup Radishes Sliced
- 1 cup Feta Cheese Crumbled, can substitute with goat cheese
- 1 large Avocado Diced, omit for lower-fat option
- 1/2 cup Pistachios Can substitute with almonds
- 1 cup Chickpeas Can swap with white beans
- 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs Basil, mint, chives or other herbs as desired
- to taste Sea Salt
- to taste Pepper
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup Basil Fresh
- 1 clove Garlic Minced
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
- 2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Good quality
- to taste Salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for just 1 minute, ensuring they turn bright green. Quickly transfer them to ice water to halt the cooking process, preserving that delightful color and crispness. Drain and set aside, mixing with thawed peas.
- In a food processor, combine fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, white wine vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more olive oil for richness if desired.
- In a large bowl, gently toss the blanched asparagus and peas with half the dressing. Sprinkle in sea salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything well until coated.
- On a lovely platter, create a base with the salad greens. Layer the tossed asparagus and pea mixture on top, followed by sliced radishes, crumbled feta cheese, diced avocado, crunchy pistachios, and protein-packed chickpeas. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and finish with fresh herbs.
- Give the salad a gentle toss before serving. Season with additional salt and pepper as desired, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Notes
Add sliced strawberries for a sweet contrast. Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day, keeping the dressing separate.