With the new season often comes a desire for some new meal ideas. As we wave bye-bye to winter and the filling foods that helped us get through it, it’s time to greet spring with some freshness. This asparagus salad with almonds & ginger-sesame vinaigrette, a recipe inspired by The New York Times, is one of several lighter fare options from Jennifer Segal at Once Upon a Chef.

Asparagus Salad
with Almonds & Ginger-Sesame Vinaigrette

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 Minutes
Total Time: 20 Minutes, plus at least 2 hours to chill

Ingredients

    • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    • 2 tablespoons light or dark brown sugar
    • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, from 1 lime
    • 2 teaspoons Asian/toasted sesame oil
    • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 1 jalapeño pepper, ribs and seeds removed, finely diced (see note)
    • 1½ pounds medium asparagus
    • 4 scallions, finely sliced (about ½ cup)
    • ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro
    • ¼ cup fresh chopped mint
    • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
    • Salt, to taste
    • ¾ cup sliced almonds

Instructions

    1. In a mixing bowl large enough to fit all of the ingredients, make the dressing: Whisk together the rice vinegar, vegetable oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and jalapeño.
    2. Snap or cut off the tough ends of each asparagus spear. Cut the asparagus on the bias into very thin slices (about ⅛-in thick), leaving the tips intact. Add the sliced asparagus to the mixing bowl and toss with the dressing. Add the scallions, cilantro, mint, and sesame seeds and toss again. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, if necessary.
    3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, stir in the almonds and then taste and adjust seasoning (you will likely need to add more lime or rice vinegar, as the flavors mellow).
    4. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and serve cold or at room temperature.

Note: When handling jalapeño peppers, be sure to keep your hands away from your eyes. Wash your hands immediately afterward so the juices don’t irritate your skin.

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