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–+ servings
Spicy Wasabi Asparagus Salad – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Spicy Wasabi Asparagus Salad

A vibrant and bold spicy wasabi asparagus salad. This easy-to-make, crisp-tender side dish is tossed in a zesty, umami-packed dressing, perfect for potlucks or as a stunning side for any plant-based protein.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 2 hours 11 minutes
Servings: 5 serving
Calories: 60

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs (908 g) (32 oz) asparagus, cut into 2-to 3-inch pieces, stalk ends trimmed
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml) (0.1 fl oz) prepared wasabi paste
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml) (0.1 fl oz) Dijon mustard, or to taste
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) rice vinegar
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml) (0.1 fl oz) honey, brown rice syrup or yacon syrup
  • 2 tsp (10 ml) sesame oil
  • Pinch sea salt
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) sesame seeds
  • The ice bath is essential! It not only stops the cooking to keep the asparagus crisp but also locks in its beautiful, vibrant green color.
  • For a fully vegan version, simply use brown rice syrup or yacon syrup instead of honey.
  • This dish can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for meal prep. The flavors will intensify as it sits in the refrigerator.

Method
 

  1. Prepare a large bowl of ice water and set it aside.
  2. Steam the asparagus until it is tender-crisp, which should take about 1 minute. Immediately transfer the cooked asparagus to the bowl of ice water to shock it and stop the cooking process.
  3. Once cooled, drain thoroughly.
  4. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the wasabi paste, Dijon mustard, rice vinegar, honey or syrup, sesame oil, sea salt, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
  5. Add the drained asparagus and sesame seeds to the dressing, and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  6. Refrigerate until chilled, for about 1 to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Serve chilled.
  8. Adjust the heat to your liking. You can easily add more wasabi paste or red pepper flakes for an extra kick, or reduce them for a milder flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 60kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 4gFat: 21g

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