Asparagus Salad

Delicious Salad with Asparagus and Yogurt Cream Dressing

Who doesn't love a fresh and filling salad at the end of the day? Asparagus salad is an excellent choice, full of flavor and nutrients, perfect for concluding a meal or being served as an appetizer. This dish is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, bringing an explosion of flavors and colors to the table. Let's discover this simple and delicious recipe together!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- Baby asparagus: 1 can (approximately 400 g) - opt for quality asparagus that is firm and crunchy.
- Natural Joya yogurt: 1 cup (200 g) - natural yogurt adds a pleasant creaminess to the dressing.
- Iodized salt: to taste - salt enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
- Freshly ground pepper: to taste - an essential ingredient that adds a hint of spice.
- Peanut oil: 2-3 tablespoons - this type of oil has a subtle flavor that perfectly complements salads.
- Balsamic vinegar: 1-2 tablespoons - used to add a pleasant acidity and a hint of sweetness.
- Rosemary: a few sprigs for garnish - this aromatic herb provides an unmistakable fragrance.

Brief History

Asparagus has been cultivated and appreciated over the centuries in various cultures. Used both as food and as a medicinal plant, asparagus is renowned for its nutritional properties. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folic acid, iron, and fiber. Combined with the yogurt dressing, this salad becomes not only a delicious choice but also a healthy option for everyday meals.

Preparation Method

1. Preparing the Asparagus:
- Start by opening the can of baby asparagus. Drain the liquid and rinse the asparagus well under cold running water. This step is important to remove excess salt and preservatives.
- Place the asparagus in a deep bowl, arranging it artistically to make it visually appealing.

2. Preparing the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the natural Joya yogurt, peanut oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well with a whisk or fork until you achieve a smooth and creamy composition.
- I recommend adjusting the amount of salt and pepper according to your preferences, but try not to overdo it, so the flavors of the asparagus stand out.

3. Assembling the Salad:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the asparagus in the bowl. Use a spatula to ensure that each piece of asparagus is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to blend and intensify.

4. Serving:
- After the salad has chilled, take it out and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs. This detail not only makes the salad more attractive but also adds a fresh aroma.
- You can serve the salad as is or as a side dish for meat or fish dishes. It's an excellent choice alongside grilled salmon or chicken steak.

Practical Tips

- Variations: If you want to add extra flavor, you can add some toasted nuts (almonds or walnuts) for a crunchy contrast. You can also replace the yogurt with a Greek yogurt variant for an even creamier dressing.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh asparagus?: Absolutely! Fresh asparagus is a wonderful choice. Just make sure to boil or steam it for 3-5 minutes so it remains crunchy.
- How can I store the salad?: The salad keeps well in the fridge for 2 days, but it is recommended to consume it on the same day to enjoy the crunchy texture of the asparagus.
- Nutritional Benefits: This salad is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, with a low calorie content, making it ideal for a balanced diet. A serving of asparagus salad provides about 120 calories, 5 g of protein, and 8 g of healthy fats from the peanut oil.

What to drink alongside?

To complement this salad, I recommend a glass of mineral water with fresh lemon or a dry white wine, which will enhance the delicate flavors of the asparagus.

Whether you serve it at a family dinner or at a picnic with friends, this asparagus salad with yogurt dressing will surely be a hit! In the end, don't forget to express your appreciation for cooking. Enjoy your meal!