Spring Pea & Asparagus Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Published: April 10, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The Spring Pea & Asparagus Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal cooking
Its fresh flavors burst with every bite, making it deliciously satisfying
The vibrant colors create an eye-catching presentation for any table setting
Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with grilled meats or serve as a light vegetarian option

Sharing this salad at our family gatherings always earns me rave reviews; everyone asks for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this Easy Irish Soda Bread recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Green Peas: Use sweet, fresh peas for that delightful crunch and sweetness; frozen peas work too if fresh isn’t available.
Asparagus: Look for firm stalks without blemishes; they should snap easily when bent.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the salad; bottled juice lacks that vibrant flavor. fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; choose a high-quality brand for the best taste.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings enhance the flavors of your ingredients, don’t skip these!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan elevates the dish with its nutty flavor; opt for freshly grated for maximum flavor.
Arugula or Spinach: These greens provide a peppery kick; you can use either based on your preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

The magic begins once you gather your ingredients!

Prep Your Veggies: Start by rinsing your fresh green peas and asparagus under cold water. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your asparagus pieces and blanch for about 2-3 minutes until they’re bright green and tender-crisp.

Shock Those Greens!: Immediately transfer your blanched asparagus to an ice bath to halt cooking. This keeps them vibrant and crunchy, like spring in vegetable form!

Mix Your Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste it, this is where magic happens!

Toss It All Together!: In a large bowl, combine arugula or spinach, blanched asparagus, fresh green peas, and drizzle your lemon vinaigrette over everything. Give it a gentle toss to coat.

Add Finishing Touches: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for that extra zing! Serve immediately or let it chill slightly in the fridge.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Spring Pea & Asparagus Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! It’s not just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter and sunshine. minty spring pea salad Enjoy every delightful bite!

You Must Know

This delightful Spring Pea & Asparagus Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette brings vibrant flavors to your table, making it a perfect spring dish
The crispness of the peas and asparagus paired with zesty lemon creates an irresistible freshness
Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, steam the asparagus first for about 3-4 minutes and then blanch the peas. This method ensures that both vegetables retain their crunchiness and vibrant color.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or add some crumbled feta cheese for extra creaminess. A sprinkle of toasted nuts can also provide a delightful crunch. For more inspiration, check out this Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best flavor, enjoy cold; reheating may soften the vegetables too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your Spring Pea & Asparagus Salad, consider using fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist
Ensure your vinaigrette is well-balanced with tangy lemon and olive oil for brightness
Finally, always taste as you go; adjustments make all the difference!

My friends often rave about this salad at gatherings! They say it perfectly captures springtime flavors, making every bite feel like a celebration.

FAQ

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen peas work well; just thaw them before adding to the salad.

What can I substitute for lemon in the vinaigrette?

Try lime juice or vinegar for a different tangy flavor profile.

How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?

The recipe is already vegan; just ensure no dairy is added in any variations.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card