Imagine a vibrant, refreshing salad that captures the essence of spring in every single bite. This Asparagus, Broad Bean, and Pea Salad with Mint Dressing is not just a side dish—it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms simple, fresh ingredients into a symphony of flavors and colors. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a light, nutritious meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and bring the freshest seasonal produce to your table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g asparagus, trimmed
- 150g broad beans, shelled
- 150g peas, fresh or frozen
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by washing the asparagus thoroughly and trimming off the tough woody ends. Cut the asparagus into 2-inch diagonal pieces.
- If using fresh broad beans, remove them from their pods. If using frozen broad beans, allow them to thaw at room temperature.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Prepare a separate bowl with ice water for blanching the vegetables.
- First, add the asparagus to the boiling water and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
- Using a slotted spoon, immediately transfer the asparagus to the ice water bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color and crispness.
- In the same boiling water, blanch the broad beans for 2 minutes, then transfer to the ice water bath.
- Next, blanch the peas for 1-2 minutes and also transfer to the ice water bath.
- Once all vegetables are cooled, drain them thoroughly and pat dry with clean kitchen towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped fresh mint, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the blanched asparagus, broad beans, and peas.
- Pour the mint dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a fresh, vibrant side dish or light lunch.
Tips
- Always choose fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture and flavor. Look for bright green asparagus with tight, compact tips.
- The key to maintaining vibrant colors and perfect texture is the blanching technique. Be precise with your cooking times to avoid overcooking.
- Use an ice bath immediately after blanching to stop the cooking process and preserve the vegetables' bright colors and crisp texture.
- For the most intense flavor, use freshly picked mint and squeeze the lemon juice just before making the dressing.
- Let the salad rest for 5 minutes after dressing to allow the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- If you prefer, you can serve this salad chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
