Asparagus Strawberry Salad

FRESH ASPARAGUS SALAD WITH STRAWBERRIES AND ALMONDS

MASTIHA NOTES Mastiha is, indeed, one of the most seductive spices in the Mediterranean. It is faintly reminiscent of pine and has a deep, almost musky aroma. It is definitely Greece’s most exotic spice. It hails exclusively from Chios, where it has been produced since antiquity and long known for its medicinal value. It is highly aromatic and therapeutic — excellent and scientifically proven as a salve against stomach ulcers, effective as a gum in promoting oral health. Mastiha’s piney flavour is an excellent pair to this wonderful spring salad. As a little goes a long way for mastiha, pound only a couple of crystals with a little salt, if you’re making a savory dish
RATING
SERVES
4
PREP TIME
40 min
COOK TIME
5 min
RECIPES
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    Ingredients

    Instructions

    1. Trim the asparagus spears with a vegetable parer, removing any fibrous parts of the bottom end of the spears. Cut the spears into 1 ½-inch long pieces. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and blanch the asparagus for 2 minutes. Drain and immediately cool in a bowl filled with ice water.
    2. Toss the asparagus and strawberries together in a bowl. Set aside, covered, in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes.
    3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, mastiha powder, honey and sea salt until emulsified and creamy. Pour dressing over salad, toss and serve.

    Notes

    Cooking Tips for Asparagus Salad with Strawberries & Almonds

    • Asparagus Preparation: When preparing asparagus for this salad, make sure to trim off the tough ends before cutting them into 1 ½-inch pieces. This ensures a tender and enjoyable texture in the final dish.
    • Strawberry Slicing: For the strawberries, hulling and slicing them just before adding to the salad helps maintain their freshness and vibrant color. This also ensures they retain their juiciness and flavor.
    • Almond Toasting: To enhance the nutty flavor of the almonds, consider toasting them lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad. This simple step can elevate the overall taste and texture of the dish.

    Nutritional Information for Asparagus & Strawberries

    • Asparagus: Asparagus is a nutrient-dense vegetable rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber. It is low in calories and a good source of antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
    • Strawberries: Strawberries are packed with vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any diet. Strawberries also contain anthocyanins, which have been linked to various health benefits.

    Selecting Fresh Asparagus and Strawberries

    • Asparagus: When buying asparagus, look for firm, bright green stalks with tightly closed tips. Avoid any limp or wilted spears, as they indicate age and loss of freshness. Thicker spears tend to be more tender and flavorful.
    • Strawberries: Choose strawberries that are plump, firm, and brightly colored with fresh green caps. Avoid berries that are mushy, bruised, or have signs of mold. Smaller strawberries often have more concentrated flavor, while larger ones may be juicier. Remember to give them a gentle sniff for a sweet aroma, indicating ripeness.

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