She Paused 4 Thought

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Asparagus Salad w/Shallots, Pine Nuts & Cheese

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This refreshing Asparagus Salad w/Shallots, Pine Nuts & Cheese won’t heat up your kitchen or take much of your time.

Photo by Cathy Nelson Arkle

Warmer weather is finally approaching and with it comes delightful spring vegetables. One of my favorites is asparagus: it’s stylish, bright and addictive.

There are so many simple ways to cook asparagus, and today’s recipe won’t heat up your kitchen or take much of your time. It is also perfect for a picnic or potluck as it travels well.

I took this delectable “Raw Asparagus Salad with Shallots, Pine Nuts & Cheese” to my monthly LA Food Blogger’s Meet-Up. This month’s theme was salads, and what a fabulous array of spring-inspired dishes we had. Here are just a few.


Jicama SaladFBLA salad meeting

Maura Hernandez of The Other Side of the Tortilla made Ensalada Xec (Mayan citrus salad ) & Ericka Sanchez of Nibbles and Feasts made Melon Salad with Coconut Milk.

FBLA meeting
Judy Lyness of Two Broads Abroad created this gorgeous Thai Beef Salad

Fennel saladyogurt sundaes
Judy Weintraub of Bumbleberry Breeze made Fennel Salad with Tangerines & Avocado
Patricia Rose of Fresh Food in a Flash made savory & sweet Chobani Sundaes

Alluring Asparagus  

Historically, asparagus has been known for its healing and cleansing properties and its balance of vitamins, including  K, B-folate, C, A and folic acid. Asparagus is 93% water, it is low in calories and sodium, and contains no cholesterol or fat. It’s also a good source of protein – yes, protein. This vivacious veggie has roughly four grams of protein per one-cup serving.

Today’s Recipe

This salad is as simple as chopping and mixing – if you use thin asparagus, there is no peeling required (use the tough asparagus ends for soups or stocks).

photo by cathy nelson arkle

asparagus salad
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Asparagus Salad with Shallots, Pine Nuts & Cheese

This refreshing Asparagus Salad is healthy and comes together quickly. Perfect for a picnic or potluck as it travels well.
Course Salad
Author Roughly adapted from Anne Burrell - Food Network

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch pencil-thin asparagus tough stems removed
  • 4 small shallots diced (about 5 tablespoons)
  • 2-3 ounces crumbled ricotta salata feta or goat cheese are great options
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoons walnut oil you can use olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon mild honey
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Instructions

  1. Cut the asparagus into very thin, crosswise slices, and place in a medium bowl. Add the shallots and cheese and toss to combine.
  2. In a small bowl whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt and pepper. Add to the asparagus mixture and toss gently. Adjust the seasoning.
  3. Serve, topped with toasted pine nuts.

Recipe Notes

Make an hour or so in advance to allow the flavors to blend. | Serves 3-4 as a side dish.

Fun Facts

* Asparagus historically was heralded as an aphrodisiac, probably because of its shape.

* While approximately 300 varieties of asparagus have been noted, only 20 are edible.

* According to the California Asparagus Commission, asparagus gained popularity in France and England in the 16th Century. King Louis XIV of France so enjoyed this delicacy that he ordered special greenhouses built for a year-round supply. Hence the reference to asparagus as “Food of the Kings.”

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Quote of the Day

“Asparagus inspires gentle thoughts” – Charles Lamb

I say asparagus inspires endless possibilities for scrumptious salads.
…and then, she paused for thought.

 

Yum

Reader Interactions

Comments

  3. nusrat2010

    Who wouldn’t fall in love with that gorgeous, vibrant salad? 🙂
    Loved the ‘fun facts’ that you added at the end of the post 🙂 And fabulous photos, as always.
    Love.

    Reply

  15. Rona Lewis

    Cathy, I bet you could use this as a side dish and with lightly cooked asparagus, sauteed shallots and toasted pine nuts!

    Reply

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