As the sun beats down on us during the hot summer months, it’s natural to crave lighter, cooler meals that can help beat the heat. One vegetable that is perfectly suited for this kind of treatment is asparagus – typically thought of as a springtime staple, its versatility and refreshing flavor make it a great candidate for cold preparations.
From classic salads to innovative soups and pasta dishes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy asparagus in the summer. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different recipes that showcase the best of what cold asparagus has to offer. Whether you’re looking for something light and easy or a bit more substantial, there’s sure to be something on this list to satisfy your cravings.
Chilled Asparagus with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing side dish is perfect for warm weather or as a light accompaniment to any meal. The tangy lemon vinaigrette brings out the natural sweetness of the asparagus, making it a simple yet impressive addition to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Blanch the asparagus for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. Shock the asparagus in an ice bath to stop cooking and preserve color.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Drain the asparagus and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Toss the asparagus with the lemon vinaigrette and top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including blanching and chilling)
Cold Asparagus and Prosciutto Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the salty, savory flavor of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the asparagus and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain the asparagus and immediately plunge it into an ice bath to stop cooking.
4. Cut the prosciutto into thin strips.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
6. To assemble the salad, place the cooled asparagus on a platter or individual plates.
7. Top with prosciutto strips, Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of the dressing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time)
Marinated Asparagus with Feta and Olives
This recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender asparagus spears marinated in a zesty mixture, topped with crumbly feta cheese and briny olives. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add the asparagus to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove asparagus from marinade and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Top cooked asparagus with feta cheese and olives. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Asparagus Soup with Yogurt Drizzle
This refreshing soup is perfect for warm weather, combining the natural sweetness of asparagus with a tangy yogurt drizzle. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth, cooled
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree asparagus, broth, and salt until smooth.
2. Refrigerate the soup for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in yogurt and lemon juice.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None (soup is prepared cold)
Asian-Inspired Sesame Asparagus Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the crunch of asparagus with the nutty taste of sesame, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together toasted sesame seeds, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss roasted asparagus with sesame seed mixture.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Avocado Cold Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the creamy richness of avocado, perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
2. Shock the asparagus in an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled asparagus, diced avocado, lemon juice, and chopped red onion (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is served chilled.
Pickled Asparagus with Garlic and Dill
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this easy pickling recipe featuring tender asparagus, pungent garlic, and fresh dill. Perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill weed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Trim the asparagus spears to fit in a clean glass jar or container.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, garlic slices, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pack the asparagus into the prepared jar, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) headspace.
5. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the asparagus, ensuring all spears are covered.
6. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
7. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including cooling time)
Cold Asparagus Pasta Salad with Pesto
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. The combination of tender asparagus, creamy pesto, and tangy Parmesan cheese creates a delicious and healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine asparagus and pesto. Toss gently to coat the asparagus evenly.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss again to combine with the asparagus and pesto.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (not including chilling time)
Asparagus and Tomato Caprese Salad
Asparagus and Tomato Caprese Salad Recipe: A refreshing twist on the classic Italian salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, arrange the grilled asparagus, tomato slices, and mozzarella cheese in layers.
4. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (grilling time included)
Chilled Asparagus with Mustard Dressing
This refreshing side dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch. The tangy mustard dressing complements the natural sweetness of the asparagus, creating a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Blanch the asparagus for 3-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
3. Remove from heat and immediately plunge into an ice bath to stop cooking.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, mustard, and olive oil.
5. Drain and pat dry the chilled asparagus with paper towels.
6. Toss the asparagus with the mustard dressing and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including blanching and chilling time)
Cold Asparagus and Quinoa Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the tender crunch of asparagus with the nutty flavor of quinoa, perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, asparagus, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. If using, sprinkle feta cheese and parsley on top of the salad.
Cooking Time:
– Quinoa cooking time: 15-20 minutes
– Assembly time: 5 minutes
Asparagus and Cucumber Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing gazpacho recipe, perfect for a summer evening. This chilled soup is packed with the sweetness of asparagus and the crunch of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cucumbers, peeled and seeded
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the asparagus, cucumbers, bell pepper, and yogurt until smooth.
2. Add the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper; blend until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This gazpacho is a quick and easy no-cook recipe.
Cold Asparagus with Poached Egg and Hollandaise
Transform asparagus into a refreshing summer side dish by pairing it with a creamy poached egg and tangy hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Hollandaise sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Poach the eggs for 3-4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
2. In a large bowl, combine the asparagus and enough cold water to cover it. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the asparagus to become tender.
3. Remove the asparagus from the water, pat dry with paper towels, and slice into 1-inch pieces.
4. To make the hollandaise sauce, whisk together the softened butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in any store-bought or homemade hollandaise sauce.
5. Arrange the asparagus on a serving plate, top with a poached egg, and drizzle with the hollandaise sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Asparagus and White Bean Salad
This light and refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. This recipe is also great for using up leftover asparagus and canned beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted asparagus, cannellini beans, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Asparagus and Shrimp Cocktail
This light and refreshing appetizer is perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions. A simple combination of tender asparagus, succulent shrimp, and tangy cocktail sauce will delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cocktail sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with ice.
2. Place the asparagus in the bowl and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to chill.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, mayonnaise, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
5. Just before serving, stir in cocktail sauce.
6. Serve chilled asparagus and shrimp cocktail together on a platter or individual plates.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (assembling only)
Asparagus and Radish Salad with Mint
This refreshing salad combines the tender crunch of asparagus, the spicy kick of radishes, and the cooling freshness of mint for a delightful springtime treat. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup thinly sliced radishes (such as red or white)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted asparagus, radishes, and mint leaves.
4. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and lemon juice. Toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Asparagus and Farro Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the nutty flavor of farro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain the asparagus and immediately submerge it in an ice bath to stop cooking. Once cooled, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cooked farro, olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Add the chilled asparagus to the farro mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Chilled Asparagus with Tahini Dressing
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of asparagus with the creaminess of tahini dressing, perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the asparagus and immediately plunge it into an ice bath to stop cooking. Let cool completely.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once the asparagus has cooled, place it in a serving dish or individual containers. Drizzle with the tahini dressing and garnish with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including blanching time)
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 18 refreshing cold asparagus recipes! From classic combinations like Chilled Asparagus with Lemon Vinaigrette and Cold Asparagus and Prosciutto Salad, to creative twists like Marinated Asparagus with Feta and Olives and Pickled Asparagus with Garlic and Dill, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and tangy salad or a creamy soup, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you cool all summer long.