Asparagus, Tomato and Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Prep Time: 5 min | Cook Time: 8 min | Total Time: 13 min | Serves: 7
INGREDIENTS
Vinaigrette
6 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tsp dijon mustard
2 tsp honey
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Salad
2 lbs fresh asparagus (medium thickness), tough ends trimmed, remaining diced into 2-inch pieces
1 (10.5 oz) pkg. grape tomatoes, halved
⅔ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
DIRECTIONS
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Meanwhile prepare vinaigrette - add vinegar to a small saucepan, bring to a boil over medium heat and allow to boil until reduced by half, about 3 minutes. Pour into a jar or bowl, add olive oil, dijon mustard, honey, garlic and whisk to blend while seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Add asparagus to boiling water and allow to boil until tender crisp, about 4 - 5 minutes. Meanwhile fill a medium mixing bowl with ice and cold water. Drain and immediately transfer asparagus to ice water, let rest about 10 seconds then drain asparagus well. Transfer to a bowl with tomatoes and walnuts. Drizzle vinaigrette over top and toss lightly. Sprinkle over half of the feta then plate and top with remaining feta (just so the feta doesn't brown from tossing with all the dressing).