Asparagus Tomato Feta Salad
Equipment
- Large pot
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Small whisk
- slotted spoon
Ingredients
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
- 6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 garlic clove minced
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Salad
- 2 lb 900 g fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 10.5 oz 300 g grape tomatoes, halved
- ⅔ cup toasted walnuts chopped
- 4 oz 115 g feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Transfer the reduced vinegar to a small bowl and whisk together with the olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Fill a large bowl with ice water.
- Cook the asparagus in the boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes until just tender-crisp.
- Drain immediately and transfer the asparagus to the ice water for about 10 seconds to stop the cooking.
- Drain the asparagus thoroughly.
- Place the asparagus, grape tomatoes, and toasted walnuts in a large serving bowl.
- Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat.
- Sprinkle half of the feta cheese over the salad and toss lightly.
Notes & Wine Advice
Recipe Notes
Blanching the asparagus and cooling it immediately in ice water helps preserve its bright green color and crisp texture. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them to the salad. Assemble the salad shortly before serving for the freshest texture and appearance. The balsamic vinaigrette can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.Wine Advice
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the asparagus and tangy feta cheese. A refreshing Pinot Grigio is another excellent choice with this light Mediterranean-style salad.Nutrition values
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About This Recipe
Asparagus Tomato Feta Salad is a fresh Mediterranean-inspired salad that celebrates the flavors of spring and summer. Tender-crisp asparagus is paired with juicy grape tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, crunchy toasted walnuts, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette that ties everything together beautifully. The combination of crisp vegetables, tangy cheese, and sweet balsamic dressing creates a colorful dish that’s equally at home at family dinners, barbecues, holiday tables, or light lunches.
Why You’ll Love Asparagus Tomato Feta Salad
This asparagus feta salad comes together quickly using fresh, wholesome ingredients. Blanching the asparagus keeps it vibrant and crisp while the reduced balsamic vinegar creates a richer, slightly sweeter dressing than a traditional vinaigrette. Creamy feta and toasted walnuts provide wonderful texture and flavor, making every bite satisfying. If you enjoy fresh seasonal dishes, browse our Salad Recipes, Vegetable Recipes, Cheese Recipes, Greek Recipes, and Easter Recipes.
How To Make Asparagus Feta Salad
Reduce the balsamic vinegar slightly before whisking it with olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic to create a smooth vinaigrette. Blanch the asparagus until just tender, then cool it quickly in ice water to preserve its bright green color. Toss the asparagus with tomatoes, walnuts, and the dressing before finishing with crumbled feta just before serving for the best texture and presentation.
Serving Asparagus Tomato Feta Salad
Serve this asparagus feta salad alongside grilled chicken, salmon, steak, or lamb. It also makes an elegant addition to Easter brunches, spring picnics, and summer barbecue buffets.
Storage Tips
Asparagus Tomato Feta Salad is best served fresh. If preparing ahead, keep the vinaigrette separate and combine everything shortly before serving. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. For additional food safety guidance, visit the FDA Food Safety website.
Fresh vegetables, creamy feta, toasted walnuts, and a rich balsamic vinaigrette make Asparagus Tomato Feta Salad a simple yet elegant recipe you’ll enjoy throughout asparagus season. It’s proof that a handful of quality ingredients can create a memorable dish with very little effort.