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### Asparagus and Mozzarella Salad Recipe: A Delicious Springtime Delight
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy fresh asparagus combined with creamy mozzarella cheese in a simple yet delightful salad. This dish not only brings vibrant flavors but also provides a healthy, satisfying meal that's easy to prepare. Follow these steps for an impressive appetizer or side dish.
#### Ingredients
- **400g** (14 oz) fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- **1 tablespoon** chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil)
- **Salt and pepper**, to taste
- **Freshly grated Parmesan cheese**, optional
#### Instructions
##### Step 1: Preparing the Asparagus
1. **Wash the asparagus:** Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water, then trim off any tough ends.
2. **Blanch in boiling water:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until just tender. Remove with tongs and plunge into ice-cold water to halt cooking and preserve color.
##### Step 2: Preparing the Dressing
1. **Mix olive oil, vinegar, and garlic:** In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. **Add herbs for flavor:** Stir in chopped fresh herbs to enhance the taste.
##### Step 3: Assembling the Salad
1. **Combine asparagus and mozzarella:** Arrange the prepared asparagus spears on a large salad plate or platter. Place the halved mozzarella balls around and over the asparagus.
2. **Drizzle with dressing:** Pour half of the garlic dressing over the asparagus and mozzarella. Reserve the remaining dressing for serving.
3. **Toss gently:** Lightly toss the salad to ensure it’s well-coated.
##### Step 4: Serving
1. **Garnish (optional):** Sprinkle a little freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
2. **Serve immediately:** This salad is best served right after assembly, as the asparagus and mozzarella will remain fresh and flavorful.
#### Tips for Success
- Ensure that your asparagus is bright green to ensure freshness.
- For an extra pop of color, consider using different types of herbs or adding slices of red bell peppers.
- Experiment with other cheeses; feta or goat cheese can also work well in this recipe.
This asparagus and mozzarella salad not only looks beautiful but tastes refreshing and light. It’s a fantastic addition to any springtime meal. Enjoy your delicious homemade salad today!
**Keywords:** asparagus, mozzarella salad, spring appetizer, fresh vegetables, healthy recipes