Elevate your next gathering with a vibrant and mouthwatering Roasted Asparagus Antipasto Salad that not only dazzles the eyes but also tantalizes the taste buds! This Italian-inspired dish is a perfect blend of fresh, roasted, and tangy flavors, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. With just 25 minutes of your time, you can create a stunning salad that will have your guests raving and coming back for more. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Asparagus, trimmed
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olives, assorted
- Artichoke hearts
- Parmesan cheese, shaved
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly and trim off the tough woody ends by snapping or cutting approximately 1-2 inches from the bottom of the stalks.
- Arrange the trimmed asparagus on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring each spear is evenly coated.
- Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the spears are tender and slightly crisp at the edges with a vibrant green color.
- While the asparagus is roasting, prepare the additional antipasto ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, drain and roughly chop the artichoke hearts, and slice the assorted olives.
- Once the asparagus is roasted, remove from the oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes to slightly warm temperature.
- Arrange the roasted asparagus on a serving platter, then artfully scatter the cherry tomatoes, olives, and artichoke hearts over the top.
- Using a vegetable peeler, shave thin strips of Parmesan cheese over the salad for added richness and flavor.
- Finish the dish by drizzling balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern across the salad, which will add a sweet and tangy complexity to the roasted vegetables.
- Serve immediately while the asparagus is still warm, allowing the flavors to meld and create a delightful Italian-inspired antipasto experience.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Asparagus: Look for bright green, firm asparagus spears with tightly closed tips for the best flavor and texture. Freshness makes all the difference!
- Even Roasting: Make sure to arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Customize Your Antipasto: Feel free to mix and match the antipasto ingredients. Add roasted red peppers, marinated artichokes, or even some prosciutto for a heartier salad.
- Perfecting the Parmesan: For a gourmet touch, use a good quality aged Parmesan cheese. Shaving it with a vegetable peeler creates beautiful curls that add elegance to your dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a side dish to grilled meats.
- Make Ahead: You can roast the asparagus a few hours in advance and toss it with the other ingredients just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
