Looking for a light and delicious salad to impress your guests at your next BBQ, picnic, or holiday gathering? This Goat Cheese and Asparagus Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion, blending fresh, vibrant flavors with a tangy maple vinaigrette.
Whether you’re hosting a summer celebration, a cozy spring dinner, or just want a crowd-pleasing side dish, this Mediterranean-inspired salad will wow everyone!
Ingredients You’ll Need For This Recipe:
Cooking Time :
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 5 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 pound (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cups (about 120g) mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby greens)
- 1/2 cup (75g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup (40g) red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup (about 120g) goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup (30g) walnuts
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
For the Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5g) Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon (7g) maple syrup
Step-by-step Guide:
1 – Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
2 – Immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, drain and pat dry.
3 – In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until well combined.
4 – In a large bowl, combine the blanched asparagus, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
5 – Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat the ingredients, add salt and pepper.
6 – Divide the salad among plates or serve in a large bowl. Top with crumbled goat cheese and toasted nuts if desired.
7 – Dig in and enjoy your salad!
Pro Tips for Success:
- For a quicker prep: Use pre-washed mixed greens and pre-cut asparagus from the store to save time.
- Make it ahead: Prep the salad ingredients and vinaigrette in advance, but wait to toss them together until right before serving to keep everything fresh.
- For a nut-free option: Swap the walnuts for pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or leave them out altogether for a lighter salad.
This Goat Cheese and Asparagus Salad is the perfect mix of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for your next gathering. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this salad is sure to be a hit!