As the summer sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing cold asparagus salad to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds. Asparagus, at its peak in season from March to June, is a versatile ingredient that can be paired with a wide range of flavors and textures to create a multitude of delicious salads. From classic combinations like lemon-herb and parmesan, to international inspirations like Asian sesame ginger and Mediterranean chickpea, the options are endless. In this article, we’ll explore 18 refreshing cold asparagus salad recipes that are perfect for hot summer days. Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy snack or a show-stopping side dish, these salads are sure to impress.
Lemon-Herb Chilled Asparagus Salad with Feta
Lemon-Herb Chilled Asparagus Salad with Feta: A refreshing springtime salad that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of lemon and creaminess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the asparagus and immediately submerge it in an ice bath to stop cooking. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the chilled asparagus, parsley, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the lemon-herb dressing and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Crispy Prosciutto and Cold Asparagus Salad
A refreshing spring salad that combines the crunch of crispy prosciutto with the tender sweetness of cold asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange prosciutto slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
5. Meanwhile, blanch asparagus in boiling water for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
6. Shock asparagus in an ice bath to stop cooking.
7. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
8. Add cooled asparagus, crispy prosciutto, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Asparagus Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of asparagus with the savory flavors of sesame and ginger, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or side dish. With its Asian-inspired twist, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced red bell peppers or carrots for added color
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Spread on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil and remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
5. Toss roasted asparagus with sesame seed mixture, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with optional red bell peppers or carrots, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Cold Asparagus and Chickpea Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all tied together with a tangy Mediterranean dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus, chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir in chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Parmesan Shaved Asparagus Salad with Arugula
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing and flavorful combination of tender asparagus, peppery arugula, and nutty Parmesan. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Shave the asparagus into thin strips and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked asparagus, arugula, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Cold Asparagus and Strawberry Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, all wrapped up with crunchy asparagus. Perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place asparagus on the sheet in a single layer.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Combine roasted asparagus, sliced strawberries, and balsamic glaze in a bowl. Toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Cold Asparagus Salad with Lime Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the tender crunch of asparagus, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or red onion for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with ice water and submerge the asparagus. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to chill.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil to make the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Drain the asparagus and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Combine diced avocado and chilled asparagus in a large serving bowl.
5. Drizzle the lime dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or red onion, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Greek Yogurt Dill Asparagus Salad
A refreshing springtime salad that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of Greek yogurt and the brightness of fresh dill. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the asparagus in a single layer.
3. Roast the asparagus for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Once the asparagus is cooked, allow it to cool slightly before tossing it with the yogurt mixture.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Cold Asparagus Pasta Salad
Roasted Garlic and Cold Asparagus Pasta Salad: A flavorful and refreshing spring-inspired salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne, or linguine)
– 4-6 garlic cloves
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic clove, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted garlic, and cold asparagus.
6. Drizzle with white wine vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Spicy Thai-Style Cold Asparagus Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional asparagus, this spicy cold salad combines the crunch of asparagus with the bold flavors of Thailand. Perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, fish sauce, lime juice, and Thai red curry paste.
2. Add the asparagus to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled.
Pickled Asparagus and Radish Cold Salad
Add a burst of flavor and color to your plate with this refreshing cold salad, perfect for springtime gatherings or a quick lunch. This recipe combines the sweetness of pickled asparagus with the spiciness of radishes and the crunch of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons salt
– 2 large radishes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add asparagus to the pickling liquid. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Let asparagus cool in the liquid. Strain and discard liquid.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooled asparagus, radish slices, parsley, dill, and olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
6. Chill salad in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato and Mozzarella Cold Asparagus Caprese Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of tomatoes and mozzarella with the crunch of asparagus, all tied together with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Extra-virgin olive oil
– Balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
4. Top tomatoes with roasted asparagus, mozzarella cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Toasted Almond and Asparagus Chilled Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of toasted almonds with the tender sweetness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a chilled and creamy package. Perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Toss almonds with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Toast for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
2. Grill asparagus over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes per side or until tender. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled asparagus, toasted almonds, lemon juice, and Greek yogurt. Toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Dressed Cold Asparagus Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for spring, this Honey Mustard Dressed Cold Asparagus Salad is a delightful combination of tender asparagus, tangy honey mustard dressing, and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus and salt. Massage for about 5 minutes to tenderize the asparagus.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the asparagus and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the salad and toss again to combine.
5. If desired, add lemon juice and toss one more time.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (cold salad)
Citrusy Cold Asparagus and Farro Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing salad, perfect for warm weather. The combination of tender asparagus, nutty farro, and zesty citrus creates a delightful harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the asparagus in boiling water for 4-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and chill.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, chilled asparagus, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss to coat.
3. Stir in chopped mint leaves and season with salt and pepper.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Asparagus and Quinoa Cold Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of grilled asparagus with the nutty flavor of quinoa, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or side dish. The addition of creamy feta cheese and tangy lemon vinaigrette brings this salad to life.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Allow to cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled asparagus, cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Cold Asparagus Ribbon Salad
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the tender crunch of asparagus, perfect for a light and elegant meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 4-5 minutes, or until tender.
2. Immediately submerge the asparagus in an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Cut the asparagus into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler or sharp knife.
4. In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cold asparagus ribbon to the salmon mixture and gently toss to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese and Asparagus Chilled Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of goat cheese with the natural sweetness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a burst of fresh herbs. Perfect for warm spring days or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine crumbled goat cheese, chopped parsley, and roasted asparagus.
4. Drizzle with white wine vinegar and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including roasting time)
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing cold asparagus salad recipes. From classic combinations to international inspirations, there’s something for everyone. Try the Lemon-Herb Chilled Asparagus Salad with Feta, Crispy Prosciutto and Cold Asparagus Salad, or Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Asparagus Salad. Or, opt for a Mediterranean twist with chickpeas, Parmesan shaved asparagus salad with arugula, or go bold with spicy Thai-style flavors. With over 18 recipes to choose from, you’ll find the perfect side dish or light lunch to enjoy during the warmest months of the year.
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