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This asparagus and strawberry salad is a delightful and elegant dish that pairs the freshness of asparagus and strawberries with the savory crunch of crispy prosciutto.

Topped with whole candied almonds and a hint of orange zest, and finished with a drizzle of balsamic dressing, this salad is a blend of flavors and textures.

It’s perfect for a sophisticated starter or light meal. Let’s begin!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
  • 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  • 4 slices of prosciutto
  • 1/2 cup whole candied almonds (homemade or store bought)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Olive oil for cooking
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Balsamic Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Blanch Asparagus (5 minutes): Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Immediately plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Crisp the Prosciutto (10 minutes): In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the prosciutto slices and cook until crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and place on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, break into large pieces.
  3. Prepare Balsamic Dressing (5 minutes): In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Assemble the Salad (5 minutes): Arrange the cold asparagus stalks on a serving platter. Top with sliced strawberries, crispy prosciutto pieces, and whole candied almonds.
  5. Add Zest and Dressing (2 minutes): Sprinkle orange zest over the salad. Drizzle with the balsamic dressing just before serving.
  6. Serve (1 minute): Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful salad!

Notes

This dish is all about the balance of flavors and textures. Ensure the asparagus is not overcooked – it should be vibrant and retain a slight crunch.

The combination of sweet strawberries, salty prosciutto, and nutty almonds creates a unique taste experience, enhanced by the citrusy note of orange zest.

This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for impressing guests. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition