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Fresh Shaved Asparagus and Parmesan Salad with Easy Healthy Lemon Vinaigrette

fresh shaved asparagus salad - featured image

A crisp and tender raw asparagus salad tossed with nutty Parmesan and a bright lemon vinaigrette, perfect for a quick, light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh asparagus, firm and bright green with closed tips
  • ½ cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, shaved or thinly sliced
  • 1 large lemon, juiced (and zest if available)
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and prepare the asparagus: rinse under cold water and pat dry. Trim off the woody ends about 1-2 inches (2.5-5cm) from the bottom.
  2. Using a vegetable peeler, shave the stalks lengthwise into thin ribbons, aiming for delicate, translucent strips.
  3. Make the lemon vinaigrette: whisk together the juice of 1 large lemon, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup. Add salt and pepper to taste and whisk until emulsified.
  4. Place the shaved asparagus ribbons into a medium mixing bowl. Pour the lemon vinaigrette over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Add the Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if using, scattering them over the salad.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top before serving for extra elegance.
  7. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture.

Notes

Use a sharp vegetable peeler for clean ribbons. Toss salad just before serving to keep asparagus crisp. Lemon zest adds extra flavor. Can substitute Pecorino Romano for Parmesan or use dairy-free cheese alternatives for vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: asparagus salad, shaved asparagus, lemon vinaigrette, Parmesan salad, healthy salad, spring salad, easy salad recipe