Go Back
+ servings
Toasted asparagus salad
Print Recipe
No ratings yet

Toasted Asparagus Salad

Toasted Asparagus Salad with Pistachios is a vibrant and crunchy side dish that pairs asparagus with toasted breadcrumbs and pistachios and is tossed in a light lemon dressing.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: asparagus, Lemon, Pistachio
Servings: 4 Servings
Calories: 853kcal
Author: Laura Lynch

Ingredients

  • 2 thick slices day-old French bread
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup pistachios chopped
  • 1 pound asparagus tough bottoms removed
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Zest from 1 lemon
  • Juice from 1 to 2 lemons to yield 1/4 cup
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

  • Place day-old bread in the food processor and pulse until fine.
  • In a large pan over medium heat, add the oil. When hot, add the crumbs and the salt. Toast slowly, on medium or low heat, stirring occasionally, until crumbs are golden brown. Let cool slightly.
  • Place the pistachios in the same pan over low heat. Remove them from the heat when they smell and look toasty.
  • Slice the asparagus thinly on the bias.
  • In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread crumbs, toasted pistachios, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper, to taste, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine. Add the asparagus and toss.
  • Drizzle on the 1/4 cup olive oil. Toss to combine. Taste and adjust the flavors, if necessary.
  • Transfer to a serving platter.

Video

Notes

  • Toasting the breadcrumbs and pistachios separately in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant enhances their flavors and adds a delightful crunch to the salad. You can use the same pan to toast them in.
  • Cutting the asparagus thinly on the bias makes it easy to eat raw asparagus - super crunchy and delicious!
  • Toss the asparagus together just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the asparagus and the crunch of the breadcrumbs and pistachios. This ensures the salad remains fresh and vibrant.

Nutrition

Calories: 853kcal | Carbohydrates: 113g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 1482mg | Potassium: 635mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 1056IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 296mg | Iron: 11mg