Elevate your salad game with this delightful Caesar Salad with Asparagus. Combining the classic flavors of Caesar salad with the earthy crunch of fresh asparagus, this dish offers a refreshing twist on a beloved favorite. Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and flavorful Parmesan cheese come together to create a salad that’s both satisfying and delicious. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to prepare this mouthwatering salad with the addition of tender-crisp asparagus spears. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this fresh and flavorful Caesar Salad with Asparagus.
Ingredients: For the Salad:
- 1 bunch asparagus, tough ends trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 head romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
- 1 cup Caesar salad croutons
- 1/2 cup shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 anchovy fillets, mashed (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons water, as needed to thin the dressing
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the trimmed asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
- Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until tender-crisp and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Meanwhile, prepare the Caesar dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, mashed anchovy fillets (if using), grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, thin it out with water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, Caesar salad croutons, and shaved or grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add the roasted asparagus spears to the salad bowl, tossing gently to combine.
- Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad, starting with a small amount and adding more as needed, tossing to coat evenly.
- Serve the Caesar Salad with Asparagus immediately, garnished with additional shaved or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Choose firm and bright green asparagus spears with tightly closed tips for the best flavor and texture.
- To trim asparagus, simply snap off the tough ends at the natural breaking point or use a knife to cut off the woody portion.
- For extra flavor, you can grill the asparagus instead of roasting it. Simply toss the trimmed spears with olive oil, salt, and black pepper, then grill over medium-high heat until tender and slightly charred.
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding additional toppings such as cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Leftover Caesar dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake or stir well before using.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Caesar Salad: Omit the anchovy fillets from the dressing for a vegetarian-friendly version of this salad.
- Protein-Packed Caesar Salad: Add grilled shrimp, sliced grilled chicken, or tofu cubes to the salad for a boost of protein.
- Kale Caesar Salad: Substitute chopped kale for the romaine lettuce for a hearty and nutritious twist on the classic salad.
Caesar Salad with Asparagus is a delightful combination of crisp lettuce, tender-crisp asparagus, creamy dressing, and savory Parmesan cheese that’s sure to please your palate. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish, or a main course, this fresh and flavorful salad is a versatile addition to any meal. With its simple yet satisfying ingredients, Caesar Salad with Asparagus is a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the season and enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish that’s both easy to make and a joy to eat.
