Asparagus and tomato salad
This grilled asparagus and tomato salad features smoky asparagus, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs, all tossed with a tangy lemon dressing. Served with crunchy whole-wheat croutons, it's a vibrant and nutritious dish.
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
4 slices whole-wheat bread1.50 lb asparagus
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup basil leaves
1/2 cup fresh parsley
1 tbsp capers
1 tbsp vinegar
1 lemon
Grilled asparagus and tomato salad is a delicious and healthy dish that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the fresh flavors of basil, parsley, and capers with the tangy preserved lemon, creating a vibrant and nutrient-rich salad. The grilled asparagus adds a smoky depth to the dish, while the cherry tomatoes and whole-wheat bread provide a satisfying texture. Let's dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe!
Instructions:
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly. Trim and discard the tough ends.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Roughly chop the basil and parsley leaves.
- Finely chop the preserved lemon.
- Drizzle the asparagus with the olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the asparagus on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and lightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
- Toast the whole-wheat bread slices until they are crisp and golden. You can use a toaster, oven, or the grill.
- Once toasted, cut them into small cubes or tear them into bite-sized pieces to create homemade croutons.
- In a large bowl, combine the grilled asparagus, cherry tomatoes, basil, parsley, capers, and minced garlic.
- Add the preserved lemon for a tangy and salty flavor punch.
- Pour the vinegar over the salad mixture.
- Toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with vinegar and the flavors are well distributed.
- Just before serving, add the toasted bread cubes to the salad.
- Toss again lightly to mix the croutons with the rest of the ingredients. This ensures that the croutons stay crunchy.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates.
- Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
This asparagus and tomato salad is a delightful blend of fresh, crisp vegetables and tangy, savory seasonings. It's not only a feast for the taste buds but also a nutritious meal that you can whip up in no time. Whether you're serving it as a side dish or a main course, it’s sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Enjoy!
Asparagus and tomato salad FAQ:
Grill the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until they are tender and lightly charred.
You can substitute whole-wheat bread with a gluten-free bread, ciabatta, or a rustic sourdough, depending on your dietary preferences.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the texture of the croutons.
The asparagus is done when it is tender to the fork and has visible grill marks. It should be bright green and slightly charred.
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use them sparingly since dried herbs are more concentrated. About 1 teaspoon of each dried herb can be a good starting point.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to trim the woody ends of the asparagus before grilling them for better texture and flavor.
- Grill the whole-wheat bread for an extra touch of crispiness and to bring out its nutty flavor.
- Use a high-quality olive oil to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- For a more intense flavor, you can marinate the asparagus in olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt before grilling.
- If you don't have preserved lemon, you can use fresh lemon zest and a pinch of salt as an alternative.
Nutrition Facts
4 ServingsCalories 150kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 7g
Fat 5g
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