Asparagus Tomato Feta Salad: Fresh and Vibrant Delight

This asparagus tomato feta salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its crispy asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta, this salad is healthy, family-friendly, and ideal for meal prep. You’ll love how quickly it comes together!

Table of Contents

Delicious asparagus tomato feta salad, healthy and vibrant.

Fresh asparagus tomato feta salad with walnuts and balsamic dressing.

Ingredients

Vinaigrette Dressing

6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and fresh pepper to taste

Salad

2 bunches fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 package grape tomatoes
2/3 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
4 oz. feta cheese, crumbled

Instructions

Preparing the Vinaigrette

Start by boiling a large pot of water. In a small saucepan, heat the balsamic vinegar over medium heat. Allow it to reduce by half, about 3 minutes. Transfer this to a jar or bowl. Next, add olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper to the vinegar. Whisk everything together and set aside.

Cooking the Asparagus

Add the asparagus to the boiling water and cook until it’s tender-crisp, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook it! Prepare an ice bath in a medium mixing bowl with cold water and ice. Drain the asparagus and immediately transfer it to the ice bath for about 10 seconds; then drain well again.

Assembling the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the asparagus with the grape tomatoes and toasted walnuts. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, toss it lightly, and sprinkle with crumbled feta before serving. Enjoy this beautiful salad fresh for the best flavor!

Tips for the Perfect Salad

Cooking Asparagus to Tender-Crisp

Make sure to cook the asparagus just until it’s tender-crisp. This keeps its vibrant color and satisfying crunch, making every bite delightful.

Customizing the Vinaigrette

You can adjust the vinaigrette’s flavor by adding more or less mustard or garlic, depending on your taste preferences. Feel free to get creative!

Storage Recommendations

This salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a short period. Just remember, the longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together.

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for this salad?

You will need fresh asparagus, grape tomatoes, walnuts, feta cheese, and a vinaigrette made from balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.

How is the balsamic dressing prepared?

The balsamic dressing is prepared by heating balsamic vinegar until it reduces, then mixing it with olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Can I substitute feta cheese with another type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta cheese with other cheese types such as goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative.

Is this salad suitable for a summer picnic?

Absolutely! This salad is light, refreshing, and perfect for summer picnics.

How long can I store the prepared salad?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days.

Conclusion

This asparagus tomato feta salad is a must-try for its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation. Perfect for family dinners or a light lunch, it showcases fresh ingredients beautifully. For more delicious ideas, check out our collections on Pinterest at Artemis Recipes. Enjoy your cooking adventure!