- Wash and trim the asparagus spears at a diagonal about 1 inch from the tips.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add asparagus and blanch for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
2. **Prepare Pickled Ginger Dressing:**
- In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt.
- Set aside the mixture to allow flavors to meld together while you prepare the asparagus salad.
3. **Cook Asparagus:**
- Drain the blanched asparagus spears in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Toss the cooled asparagus with the pickled ginger dressing, making sure each spear is well-coated.
4. **Add Additional Ingredients (Optional):**
- If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the asparagus salad for added texture and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh dill or parsley just before serving to keep the herbs crisp and flavorful.
5. **Serve:**
- Arrange the dressed asparagus on a platter or individual plates.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, ensuring that the pickled ginger dressing remains vibrant.
#### Tips & Tricks:
- Use a sharp knife to trim the asparagus for clean cuts.
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice before tossing with the dressing.
- Experiment with different types of vinegar such as apple cider or white wine vinegar for varied tastes in your pickled ginger dressing.
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By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious and refreshing asparagus salad with an appealing pickled ginger dressing. This dish is perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual dinners to elegant gatherings, offering a balance of flavors and textures that will impress your guests or satisfy your taste buds.