07 May 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
4 slices whole-wheat bread
1.50 lb asparagus
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup basil leaves
1/2 cup fresh parsley
1 tbsp capers
1 tbsp vinegar
1 lemon
Grilled asparagus and tomato salad is a delicious and healthy dish that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the fresh flavors of basil, parsley, and capers with the tangy preserved lemon, creating a vibrant and nutrient-rich salad. The grilled asparagus adds a smoky depth to the dish, while the cherry tomatoes and whole-wheat bread provide a satisfying texture. Let's dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly. Trim and discard the tough ends.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Roughly chop the basil and parsley leaves.
- Finely chop the preserved lemon.
2. Grill the Asparagus:
- Drizzle the asparagus with the olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the asparagus on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and lightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the Bread:
- Toast the whole-wheat bread slices until they are crisp and golden. You can use a toaster, oven, or the grill.
- Once toasted, cut them into small cubes or tear them into bite-sized pieces to create homemade croutons.
4. Mix the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the grilled asparagus, cherry tomatoes, basil, parsley, capers, and minced garlic.
- Add the preserved lemon for a tangy and salty flavor punch.
5. Dress the Salad:
- Pour the vinegar over the salad mixture.
- Toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with vinegar and the flavors are well distributed.
6. Combine with Croutons:
- Just before serving, add the toasted bread cubes to the salad.
- Toss again lightly to mix the croutons with the rest of the ingredients. This ensures that the croutons stay crunchy.
7. Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates.
- Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips:
- Make sure to trim the woody ends of the asparagus before grilling them for better texture and flavor.
- Grill the whole-wheat bread for an extra touch of crispiness and to bring out its nutty flavor.
- Use a high-quality olive oil to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- For a more intense flavor, you can marinate the asparagus in olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt before grilling.
- If you don't have preserved lemon, you can use fresh lemon zest and a pinch of salt as an alternative.
This asparagus and tomato salad is a delightful blend of fresh, crisp vegetables and tangy, savory seasonings. It's not only a feast for the taste buds but also a nutritious meal that you can whip up in no time. Whether you're serving it as a side dish or a main course, it’s sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Enjoy!