Asparagus Salad – Asparagi in Insalata is a simple Italian vegetarian recipe that is refreshing and crunchy. It can be used as a side dish or as a main dish. The asparagus is cooked so it is soft yet still has a slight bite to it. I make this in advance as it is served cold so ideal for getting ahead. You can also add cheese and sesame seeds for additional textures, a favourite of my husband.
There’s a certain magic in dishes that manage to feel both effortless and luxurious. Asparagus salad is one such creation, a humble yet refined offering that captures the essence of simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients and a few steps, this dish transforms the everyday asparagus into a centrepiece of vibrant flavour and visual appeal.
At its core, asparagus salad is a celebration of the vegetable itself. Asparagus, with its tender spears and slight crunch, brings a distinctive texture and earthy sweetness to the table. When lightly boiled or steamed, it retains its natural charm—soft yet firm enough to hold its shape. Its green hue is a feast for the eyes, a reminder of springtime renewal and vitality.
What makes this salad truly shine is its delicate balance of flavours. The dressing, a simple combination of extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, adds depth without overshadowing the asparagus. The olive oil lends a smooth richness, while the vinegar provides a bright tang that awakens the palate. A sprinkle of salt and freshly ground pepper enhances these elements, drawing out the natural sweetness of the asparagus.
The addition of chopped parsley elevates the dish further. Its herbaceous freshness contrasts beautifully with the earthy tones of the asparagus and the tang of the dressing. Beyond its flavour, parsley also adds a pop of colour, turning a simple salad into an inviting dish that feels as sophisticated as it is approachable.
What’s particularly delightful about asparagus salad is its versatility. It can be a light starter, an elegant side dish, or even a refreshing standalone snack. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted fish, or even a soft poached egg for added indulgence. Its room-temperature serving recommendation makes it ideal for gatherings, as it can sit comfortably on a buffet table without losing its appeal.
Asparagus salad is proof that culinary art doesn’t always require complex techniques or exotic ingredients. Sometimes, it’s about letting the natural qualities of good ingredients shine. With its clean flavours and timeless elegance, this dish reminds us that simplicity, when done right, can be truly extraordinary.
What makes asparagus salad so special is how easy it is to prepare while still tasting amazing. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that feels healthy, light, and full of flavour. There’s no need for fancy equipment or long cooking times—just cook the asparagus until tender, drizzle it with olive oil and vinegar, and add some seasoning. The parsley on top is a nice finishing touch that makes it look as good as it tastes. It’s simple, quick, and perfect for any occasion!
Asparagus Salad – Asparagi in Insalata
Such a refreshing salad from an under used vegetable.
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Servings: 4 people
Calories: 178kcal
Ingredients
- 2 lbs asparagus trimmed
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 bunch parsley chopped
- salt to taste
- ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- 2 lbs asparagus
- Transfer to a platter and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Drain off any water in the platter, drizzle with oil and vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.1/4 cup Extra Virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, salt
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley if desired.1 bunch parsley
- May be made several hours ahead, but do not refrigerate.
Notes
I often grate a little parmesan or other firm cheese over the asparagus whilst warm.
Nutrition
Calories: 178kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Sodium: 8mg | Potassium: 456mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g
21 comments
Served as a side dish but needed to add parmesan for more flavour. The asparagus though was lovely.
The bright green asparagus, paired with the vibrant parsley garnish, is visually stunning. The dressing is subtle but enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus.
This recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time but want something healthy and delicious. The preparation is straightforward, and the result is a salad that feels indulgent without being heavy.
It’s also versatile—I added a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra brightness, which worked wonderfully.
I added a little grated parmesan to the top for additional flavour.
This asparagus salad is a delightful addition to any spring meal.
It’s easy to make yet feels fancy enough for a dinner party.
The olive oil and vinegar dressing is understated, allowing the asparagus’s natural flavour to shine through. The chopped parsley provides a hint of freshness that elevates the dish.
The parsley garnish added a nice touch, making the salad feel special. I also love that it doesn’t need refrigeration.
It’s light yet satisfying, making it a perfect starter for a dinner party. I especially appreciate how easy it is to prepare—minimal effort for maximum flavour!
I liked the suggestion to serve it at room temperature—it enhanced the flavours definitely.
I found it very tasty but neede a bit of a kick to make it staand out.
The balance of flavours is spot on—the olive oil adds richness, the vinegar brings a tangy kick, and the parsley ties it all together.
I love that it doesn’t require refrigeration, so it can sit out on the table during a gathering without losing its appeal. Definitely a dish I’ll be making often during asparagus season
I made this salad ahead of time for a casual lunch with friends, and it was a hit. The asparagus stayed tender and flavourful, and the dressing didn’t overwhelm the dish.
Asparagus salad is a classic dish, and this recipe executes it beautifully. The asparagus was tender yet retained a slight crunch, and the dressing complemented it perfectly without overpowering.
If you’re looking for a light, refreshing dish, this asparagus salad delivers.
This is a beautifully clean tasting dish.
The tender asparagus, lightly steamed to perfection, is the star of the dish. The olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing provides a tangy, fruity balance, while the parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
The room-temperature serving suggestion is perfect, as it keeps the asparagus tender and the flavours vibrant.
I particularly enjoyed the balance between the earthy asparagus and the tangy dressing. Adding the parsley garnish gave it a pop of colour and flavour.